An online debate over foreign workers in tech shows tensions in Trump's political coalition
BOSTON - Two men, including a dual Iranian American citizen who lives in Natick, Massachusetts, have been arrested on charges that they exported sensitive technology to Iran that was used in a drone attack in Jordan that killed three American troops early this year and injured dozens of other service members, the Justice Department said Monday. The pair were arrested after FBI specialists who analyzed the drone traced the navigation system to an Iranian company operated by one of the defendants, who relied on technology funneled from the U.S. by his alleged co-conspirator, officials said. "We often cite hypothetical risk when we talk about the dangers of American technology getting into dangerous hands," said U.S. Attorney Joshua Levy, the top federal prosecutor in Massachusetts. "Unfortunately, in this situation, we are not speculating." The defendants were identified as Mahdi Mohammad Sadeghi, who prosecutors say works at a Massachusetts-based semiconductor company, and Mohammad Abedininajafabadi, who was arrested Monday in Italy as the Justice Department seeks his extradition to Massachusetts. FBI search in Natick Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Boston, said Sadeghi is a naturalized U.S. citizen living in Natick, "who we believe abandoned this country that took him in to help strengthen the arsenal of weapons for one of the world's most infamous state sponsors of terrorism." Sadeghi was arrested without incident on Monday. A home on Woodland Street in Natick was searched by the FBI on Monday afternoon in connection with the investigation. Prosecutors allege that Abedininajafabadi, who also uses the surname Adedini and operates an Iranian company that manufactures navigation systems for drones, has connections to Iran's paramilitary Revolutionary Guard. They allege that he conspired with Sadeghi to circumvent American export control laws, including through a front company in Switzerland, and procure sensitive technology into Iran. Both men are charged with export control violations, and Abedini separately faces charges of conspiring to provide material support to Iran. A lawyer for Sadeghi did not immediately return an email seeking comment. Levy said the semiconductor company Sadeghi worked for in Massachusetts was notified of the charges and is cooperating with the FBI. "These charges today underscore that the Department of Justice will not cease in its effort to seek justice for servicemembers who were killed and harmed overseas," Levy said. Drone attack in Jordan U.S. officials blamed the January attack on the Islamic Resistance in Iraq, an umbrella group of Iran-backed militias that includes Kataib Hezbollah. Three Georgia soldiers - Sgt. William Jerome Rivers of Carrollton, Sgt. Breonna Moffett of Savannah and Sgt. Kennedy Sanders of Waycross - were killed in the Jan. 28 drone attack on a U.S. outpost in northeastern Jordan called Tower 22. In the attack, the one-way attack drone may have been mistaken for a U.S. drone that was expected to return back to the logistics base about the same time and was not shot down. Instead, it crashed into living quarters, killing the three soldiers and injuring more than 40. Tower 22 held about 350 U.S. military personnel at the time. It is strategically located between Jordan and Syria, only 10 kilometers (6 miles) from the Iraqi border, and in the months just after Hamas' Oct. 7 attack on Israel, and Israel's blistering response in Gaza, Iranian-backed militias intensified their attacks on U.S. military locations in the region. Following the attack, the U.S. launched a huge counterstrike against 85 sites in Iraq and Syria used by Iran's Revolutionary Guard and Iranian-backed militia and bolstered Tower 22's defenses.Rising From The East, Sweeping Across The Globe, Double Dutch Shanghai Vol.8 Ignites Shanghai
Young woman's promise of sex that ended in armed assault results in jail
Strictly Come Dancing fans were left in disbelief after Tess Daly's "embarrassing" remark to Chris McCausland . During Musicals Week, Chris and his dance partner Dianne Buswell performed a Quickstep to a number from Anything Goes. However, the mood shifted when Tess was heard saying to Chris and Dianne as they approached her, "can you see how happy she is with you". This comment sparked outrage among viewers, as Chris is visually impaired due to retinitis pigmentosa. Fans expressed their dismay on social media, with one commenting: "No Tess, Chris can't see how happy he made Dianne...... #strictly." Another stated: "Surely Tess didn't just ask Chris 'can you see how happy she is with you? ' #Strictly." A third viewer posted: "Tess saying to Chris 'can you see how happy she is? '....um no Tess, he can't #Strictly," while another remarked: "Tess just asked Chris if he could see how happy Diane was...." One more added: "did tess actually just say 'can you see how happy she is with you' to chris. a blind man." Another wrote: "Did um...did Tess really just ask 'can you see how happy she is with you?'" Chris has previously shared that he was "terrified" about being the first blind contestant to take part in the show. He discussed how his blindness is a hereditary condition, but he's determined to make it a manageable aspect of his life. Speaking to Big Issue, he shared: "Being blind wasn't just something that happened to me, it was hereditary. Nan was blind, my mum was losing her sight. It was always treated as just part of life, so you get on with it. That's fed into my way of viewing it. "But I did always think, things are moving so fast, we've got the internet now, surely there will be a cure and I'll be able to see by the time I'm 30. I mean 40. I mean... and it just moves on and on." He added: "When you're losing your sight gradually, there's never a clear moment when you are forced to deal with it. I'd refuse to be associated with things connected to it, like, 'I'm not using a stick, I'm going to pretend I can see'. But you get into more trouble pretending there's nothing wrong. It wasn't until I lost my sight completely that I accepted it." * Strictly Come Dancing airs Sunday night on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.Michigan fans will likely be talking about Saturday’s 13-10 upset win over No. 2 Ohio State for a while, but what happened after is something they’d presumably like to forget. During a team celebration after the Wolverines’ fourth straight win over their bitter rivals, several players gathered at midfield and planted the Michigan flag in the center of the Buckeyes’ “O” logo at the 50-yard line. OSU linebacker Jack Sawyer took exception to Michigan’s blatant show of disrespect, grabbing the flag and yanking it away, which incited a brawl between countless Wolverines and Buckeyes players. Things escalated rather quickly and the two teams had to be separated by officials and police officers. A video started making the rounds on social media in the direct aftermath of what happened, and it appeared that Michigan running back Tavierre Dunlap and linebacker Jason Hewlett were maced during the melee, which drew some visceral reactions on social media. Michigan players got Maced to break up the skirmish after Beating Ohio state on their home field pic.twitter.com/q3KZS1vcS2 “YOU CAN NOT MACE PLAYERS PERIOD. I’d rather have Malice in the Palace pt2 than ever see this again,” one fan wrote . “That’s insane that any officer on the field thought that was necessary,” another added . “Suspended both coaches. Control your teams,” one user chimed in . “Those police officers need to be held accountable,” another stated . “’Protecting and serving,’” quipped another . “That’s too much, you can’t mace student athletes. This will be a story and people will be fired,” remarked one fan . The macing doesn’t seem to be a targeted incident against Michigan as multiple reports indicated some Ohio State players were also maced as well. Related: Sherrone Moore’s Behavior After Michigan Upset No. 2 Ohio State Turns HeadsGEORGETOWN 100, ALBANY 68EVEREST FAMILY FOUNDATION IN COLLABORATION WITH EDYOU TECHNOLOGIES HOSTED HEARTWARMING WINTER WONDERLAND EVENT
Mississippi State overcomes early deficit to down Prairie View A&MA Missouri judge said Monday that he could not overturn a ban on gender-affirming surgery in the state, ahead of a U.S. Supreme Court hearing on a similar case. In a 74-page ruling, Wright County Circuit Court Judge Craig Carter backed the state's block on transgender health care, including puberty blockers and hormone treatment, which was enacted in 2023. He argued that he did not have the power to overturn the ban because the plaintiffs had tried to prove that no set of circumstances existed that allowed it under the Constitution, something which he said was not possible because of disputes over the safety and ethics of gender-affirming care. "This court finds an almost total lack of consensus as to the medical ethics of adolescent gender dysphoria treatment," he wrote, adding that states had an "abiding interest in protecting the integrity and ethics of the medical profession". Judge Carter's ruling was celebrated by Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey, who branded the type of care in question as "child mutilation". "We are the first state in the nation to successfully defend such a law at the trial court level," Attorney General Bailey said in a press release. "I'm extremely proud of the thousands of hours my office put in to shine a light on the lack of evidence supporting these irreversible procedures. We will never stop fighting to ensure Missouri is the safest state in the nation for children." The trial, which lasted nine days, was spurred by an appeal from plaintiffs including the American Civil Liberties Union of Missouri and Lambda Legal, who argued that the ban was against the constitution. Judge Carter said in his ruling that the treatments banned in Missouri, including gender-affirming surgeries, fell outside "normal medicine" and therefore was unethical. He also argued that most children "outgrow" gender dysphoria. "We are extremely disappointed in this decision, but this is not the end of the fight and we will appeal," Lambda Legal and the ACLU of Missouri said in a joint statement. "However, the court's findings signal a troubling acceptance of discrimination, ignore an extensive trial record and the voices of transgender Missourians and those who care for them, and deny transgender adolescents and Medicaid beneficiaries from their right to access to evidence-based, effective, and often life-saving medical care." The plaintiffs argued that there was enough evidence to show the treatments banned were safe and necessary, while the credibility of the witnesses called by the state was sometimes called into question, the Missouri Independent reported. Some had referred to research that had since been retracted. Carter said there was too much dispute around transgender health care and pointed out that both sides had agreed on a report from the UK's National Health Service (NHS) which said interventions relied on "remarkably weak evidence". The plaintiffs said they had offered "heartfelt testimony" from transgender youth and adults who could speak to the benefits, however. In their joint statement, the groups said that "the state has prioritized politics over the well-being of its people". Missouri is not alone in banning gender-affirming care, with the Human Rights Campaign estimating in August that 39.4 percent of trans youth aged 13-17 were living in the 26 states that had passed bans on gender-affirming care. The issue of access to gender-affirming care will reach the U.S. Supreme Court next week, on December 4, when a case relating to Tennessee's ban is heard. Three transgender teenagers are leading plaintiffs, alongside the Biden administration.
MERACH Exercise Bike, Smart Magnetic Stationary Bike with Bluetooth APP 11-25-2024 10:56 PM CET | Business, Economy, Finances, Banking & Insurance Press release from: Getnews / PR Agency: PR Distribution Service Revolutionizing Indoor Cycling: Meet MERACH S28 - The Only Smart Bike with Gradient Adjustment When it comes to fitness technology, MERACH has consistently pushed boundaries. With the launch of the MERACH S28, the bar has been raised once again. As the first and only smart exercise bike featuring gradient adjustment, the S28 transforms your indoor cycling experience into a realistic, immersive journey. Here's why this groundbreaking innovation is turning heads and how it stacks up against other products in the market. Unmatched Realism with Gradient Adjustment Unlike traditional exercise bikes that simulate flat roads or rely solely on resistance settings, the S28 introduces automatic gradient adjustment. Whether you're ascending steep hills or cruising downhill, the bike adjusts its slope to mimic real-world terrains. Seamless Integration with FantomFite: Your Ultimate Fitness App The S28 is fully compatible with MERACH's proprietary FantomFite gaming app, offering a next-level interactive experience. Engage in gamified workouts where the gradient adjusts dynamically with the virtual terrain. Unlike standard apps that focus solely on metrics, FantomFite combines entertainment with fitness, keeping you motivated throughout every ride. Premium Build Meets Affordability Priced at $799.99, with a limited-time offer bringing it down to $499.99, the S28 delivers premium features without the premium price tag. A Step Ahead in Sustainability and Durability Built with a heavy-duty frame and an ultra-quiet belt-driven mechanism, the S28 ensures longevity and smooth performance. Its compact design is perfect for modern homes, while its low power consumption reflects MERACH's commitment to eco-friendly innovation. The Future of Indoor Cycling Is Here Whether you're a seasoned athlete or a beginner looking for an engaging way to stay fit, the MERACH S28 stands out as the ultimate choice for indoor cycling. With its unique features, affordability, and cutting-edge technology, it's more than a fitness tool-it's a gatew Product Link: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0DK918QQ3 Media Contact Company Name: Merach Contact Person: Marketing Team Email: Send Email [ http://www.universalpressrelease.com/?pr=merach-exercise-bike-smart-magnetic-stationary-bike-with-bluetooth-app ] Address:Room 202, 2nd Floor, Pioneer Technology Building, 298 Weiye Road, Puyan Street, Binjiang District City: Hangzhou Country: China Website: https://www.amazon.com/stores/page/99D2F83D-75AB-4189-B2FF-1A514016B63B?ingress=2&visitId=2a82edd5-d6a3-4fc5-8a63-2891a0f90ad7&store_ref=bl_ast_dp_brandLogo_sto&ref_=ast_bln This release was published on openPR.Holiday savings: Strategies to help you cut costs and stretch your budgetGraham Gano missed a game-tying field goal from 35 yards in the dying seconds as the New Orleans Saints escaped with a 14-11 win over the New York Giants.
In the face of sluggish global trade, China has introduced a series of measures to ensure steady import and export growth and help drive economic recovery this year. In the first 10 months, China’s total foreign trade value amounted to 36 trillion yuan ($4.96 trillion), representing a 5.2 percent year-on-year increase, and its export share in the global market also remained largely stable. At a news conference last Friday, Vice-Minister of Commerce Wang Shouwen said China’s foreign trade had continued to show a positive trend, characterized by improved quality and stable volume growth. However, as a backlash against globalization and rising protectionism dampen prospects of global trade, China’s foreign trade growth has also softened since August. An official investigation has also found multiple difficulties confronting trade enterprises, from export credit insurance to financing for small and medium-sized enterprises and shipping logistics. To address these challenges, the Chinese government has intensified moves to bolster foreign trade. Last Thursday, the Ministry of Commerce published a notice focused on measures to strengthen financial support for businesses engaged in international trade, foster new trade drivers such as e-commerce and green trade, and enhance services including favorable visa policies for businesspersons. Insurance companies are encouraged to increase underwriting support for “little giant” and “hidden champion” firms in their efforts to explore diversified markets, the notice said. “Little giants” refer to the novel elites among SMEs engaged in manufacturing, specializing in a niche market and boasting cutting-edge technologies. “Hidden champions” are highly successful yet lesser-known firms. Financial institutions should optimize financial services for foreign trade enterprises in areas such as credit approval, loan disbursement and repayment, said the notice. The central bank has continuously guided financing into equipment upgrades and green transformation of foreign trade companies and related logistics sectors, Liu Ye, an official of the People’s Bank of China, said at the news conference. The country’s outstanding green loans increased 25 percent year-on-year at the end of September. The latest policy support emphasized e-commerce and green trade as burgeoning new growth drivers of China’s foreign trade. The e-commerce sector, which features customized services, fast delivery and low costs, is highly competitive, Wang said at the news conference. In the first three quarters, China’s e-commerce imports and exports reported a vibrant 11.5 percent year-on-year increase, accounting for nearly 6 percent of total foreign trade. In the next step, China will help foreign trade companies better align with overseas intelligent logistics platforms and secure overseas orders, as well as deepen international e-commerce cooperation, including e-commerce in new bilateral free trade agreements, Wang said. Regarding green trade, the commerce ministry will roll out a special policy document to create a sound environment, enhance services and training for related businesses, and expand international green cooperation. Convenient cross-border travel comes as another important aspect of the trade facilitation measures. At the news conference, Tong Xuejun, an official with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said China had implemented unilateral visa-free policies for 29 countries, including France and Germany, and had achieved full visa exemption for 25 countries. In the third quarter, China recorded 8.19 million inbound trips by foreigners, an increase of 48.8 percent compared to the same period last year. According to the official, 4.89 million of these trips were made through visa-free arrangements, up 78.6 percent year-on-year. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs will continue to refine the visa-free entry policy to facilitate cross-border travel, especially for those engaged in business activities, said Tong. Source: XinhuaNone
Mississippi State overcomes early deficit to down Prairie View A&MGoogle investing nearly $1 billion this year in Nebraska at its three data centersNXT Energy Solutions Inc. Announces Board of Director ChangesStock market today: Nasdaq hits a record as Wall Street drifts ahead of Federal Reserve's meeting
Dow ends at fresh record as oil prices pull back on ceasefire hopesNEW ORLEANS (AP) — Darren Rizzi would be an unconventional choice to take over the New Orleans Saints' head coaching job on a permanent basis. That doesn't mean it can't happen. The Saints (4-7) had been on a seven-game skid when Rizzi, the club's special teams coordinator, was promoted. They've since won two straight, and as the club entered its Week 12 bye, prominent players were already discussing their desire to continue improving Rizzi's resume. “He’s definitely had an impact on our football team,” quarterback Derek Carr said after New Orleans' 35-14 victory over Cleveland last weekend. “We want to keep winning so that maybe he gets a chance to be the coach here for a long time. “That’s what we want as players,” Carr continued. "Hopefully, we can continue to have success, keep winning and give him that opportunity.” Before the Saints' demoralizing defeat at Carolina precipitated the firing of third-year coach Dennis Allen , Rizzi had never been a head coach at the NFL or major college level. The north New Jersey native and former Rhode Island tight end got his first head coaching job at Division II New Haven in 1999. He also coached his alma mater in 2008 before moving to the NFL with Miami in 2009 as a special teams assistant. By 2010, he was the Dolphins' special teams coordinator and added the title of associate head coach in 2017 before ex-Saints coach Sean Payton lured him to New Orleans in 2019. A common thread shared by Payton and Rizzi is that both worked under Bill Parcells. Parcells — known best for winning two Super Bowls as coach of the New York Giants — was coaching the Dallas Cowboys when Payton was his offensive coordinator. Rizzi, who grew up a Giants fan during the Parcells era, got to know his childhood idol during his first couple years in Miami, where Parcells executive vice president of football operations. Since his promotion, Rizzi has spoken to both Payton and Parcells. And he has begun to employ motivational techniques reminiscent of Payton, who left New Orleans in 2022 as the franchise leader in wins (152 in the regular season and nine in the postseason — including New Orleans' lone Super Bowl triumph). Payton as a big believer of symbolic imagery and motivational props, from baseball bats distributed before contests that were expected to be especially physical to gas cans left in the lockers of aging veterans whose performance was key to the club's success. Rizzi, who describes himself as a “blue collar” guy, has his own spin on such things. He began his tenure by asking players to accept individual responsibility for the metaphorical hole the team had dug itself and asked them all to embrace the idea of filling it up — one shovelful at a time. He even has brought a shovel — as well as a hammer, tape measure, level and other construction tools — to team meetings to help make his points. Saints tight end Taysom Hill, who also plays on special teams, has gotten to know Rizzi well during a half-decade of working together. Hill doesn't sound surprised to see Rizzi's combination of work ethic, enthusiasm and personal touch resonating across the entire team now. He also made a lot of changes , from weekly schedule adjustments to reconfiguring players' lockers by position. “He has a really good pulse on what we need collectively as a team to get ready for a football game," said Hill, who scored three touchdowns and accounted for 248 yards as a runner, receiver, passer and returner against Cleveland. “Guys have responded to that.” Because Rizzi's first victory came over the first-place Atlanta Falcons , and because the Falcons lost again last week, the Saints now trail Atlanta by just two games with six to play. Suddenly, the idea of the Saints playing meaningful football down the stretch is not so far-fetched. “We’re starting to get our swag back, and that makes me happy,” Rizzi said. ”We’re going to have some downtime now to kind of press the reset button again and see if we can make a push here." When the Saints return to action at home against the Los Angeles Rams on Dec 1, they'll do so with a level of momentum and positivity that seemed to steadily drain out of the club between their first loss of the season in Week 3 through the six straight setbacks that followed. While Saints players have tended to blame themselves for Allen's demise, they've been quick to credit Rizzi for the turnaround. “He’s pointed us and steered the ship in the right direction,” Carr said. “Hopefully, we can just keep executing at a high level for him, because we love him.” AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/nfl
LOS ANGELES — UCLA football underclassmen carried their seniors off the field after Thursday’s practice as part of Bruin tradition, hoisting them above their shoulders in honor of the work they’ve done in their time with the team. Two days later, 42 players walked in the Senior Day celebration prior to the Bruins’ season finale against Fresno State at the Rose Bowl. Redshirt junior Carson Schwesinger took part in the celebration, indicating the possibility that the Butkus Award-nominated linebacker may not stay for another next season. Schwesinger and head coach DeShaun Foster said the FBS’ leading tackler has not made a decision as to whether he will go to the NFL. “He’s really going to do whatever is best for him in that situation,” Foster told reporters Wednesday. “I completely understand, especially if he gets the Butkus Award, and the way that he came out and performed this season. He deserves to get a shot and go to the NFL.” Receiver J.Michael Sturdivant also walked for Senior Day. Sturdivant, a redshirt junior, was UCLA’s third-leading receiver heading into Saturday’s game with 311 total yards and one touchdown. He averaged 31.1 yards per game. Sturdivant’s ability to stretch the field was underutilized in his two seasons at UCLA after he previously played two seasons at Cal. Offensive lineman Josh Carlin, edge rusher Oluwafemi Oladejo and defensive lineman Jay Toia each walked with the seniors Saturday and are expected to make a push for the NFL. “Incredibly grateful for the Bruin program, the UCLA program,” Oladejo told reporters Tuesday. “Came in here at the age of 19 and I’m now 21, so I’ve grown here a lot. Grown as a man, matured. Not just on the field but off the field as well. This means a lot to me.” Other notable players who took part in Senior Day: offensive lineman Garret DiGiorgio, quarterbacks Ethan Garbers and Chase Griffin, running back Keegan Jones, receiver Logan Loya, tight end Moliki Matavao and linebacker Kain Medrano. “A game like, this you want to send the seniors off on the right note,” Schwesinger said, “but on top of that, it’s being able to go out there and play competitively. We’re all here because we like to play football and you get a chance to do that, you’ve gotta go out and play your hardest.” Jordan Chiles promotes return Olympic and UCLA gymnast Jordan Chiles was in attendance for Saturday’s football game and gave a “4’s up” gesture on the big screen during the second quarter, promoting her return to UCLA. Chiles, a junior who took a year off to train for and compete in the 2024 Paris Olympics, will make her return as a Bruin for the upcoming 2025 season. She made the announcement in an interview with TODAY’s Hoda Kotb in early August. Chiles won a silver medal in 2020 to make her the most decorated Olympian in UCLA women’s gymnastics history. She scored three perfect 10s in her 2022 season as a Bruin — two in floor exercise and one on the uneven bars. She won NCAA titles in both events in 2023 and was the runner-up in the all-around at the national championships. UCLA’s gymnastics season begins with its Meet the Bruins event on Dec. 14 at Pauley Pavilion.This image provided by FinaMill shows the FinaMill Ultimate Spice Grinder Set. The new FinaMill Ultimate Spice Grinder set elevates the pedestrian pepper and spice mill in both function and style. (FinaMill via AP) This image provided by QelviQ shows a wine bottle chiller. For friends who prefer stronger beverages, the QelviQ personal sommelier uses “smart” technology to ensure wine is served at its ideal temperature. (QelviQ via AP) This image provided by FUJIFILM North America Corporation and FUJIFILM Corporation Tokyo shows a smartphone printer. Fujifilm Instax’s Mini Link 3 smartphone printer offers a touch of nostalgia without sacrificing technology. Just load the printer with film and connect it to your Android or iOS device via Bluetooth to print wallet-size photos. (FUJIFILM North America Corporation and FUJIFILM Corporation Tokyo via AP) This image provided by FeatherSnap shows a female cardinal bird perched on a FeatherSnap Wi-Fi Solar Powered Camera Smart Bird Feeder. Equipped with an HD camera, the dual-chamber feeder enables up-close livestreaming of avian visitors, as well as species-logging via the free mobile app. (FeatherSnap via AP) This image provided by Nama shows the M1 plant-based milk maker. If you’ve got a no-dairy friend on your list, a plant-based milk maker could save them money while allowing them to avoid unnecessary ingredients like sugar, stabilizers, thickeners and preservatives. (Nama via AP) This image provided by Pull Start Fire shows the matchless fire igniter in use. Made of 89% recycled materials, the food-safe, eco-friendly, 3-by-2-by-1-inch fire starters will light a fire quickly without matches, lighters or kindling.(Pull Start Fire via AP) This image provided by Uncommon Goods shows a 2-piece LED Grilling Tool Set. Uncommon Good’s 2-piece LED Grilling Tool Set puts illumination into the handles of its stainless-steel spatula and tongs. (Uncommon Goods via AP) This image provided by easyplant shows a Marxii Calathea plant in a small, beige, self-watering pot. The appropriately named easyplant is one of the best gifts you can give your houseplant-loving friends, regardless of their experience level. (easyplant via AP) This image provided by Souper Cubes shows No Mess Utensils held upright on pot edges. The No Mess Utensil lives up to its name. The utensils, a serving spoon and a ladle, have innovative, S-shaped handles designed to rest on the edge of a pot. (Ashley Cuoco via AP) This image provided by FinaMill shows the FinaMill Ultimate Spice Grinder Set. The new FinaMill Ultimate Spice Grinder set elevates the pedestrian pepper and spice mill in both function and style. (FinaMill via AP) Start making your list with this compilation of some of the most innovative, functional and fun gifts of 2024. There’s something for every budget.
'I felt like I was walking on eggshells': Family violence 'under-reported, under-prosecuted'LOS ANGELES — UCLA football underclassmen carried their seniors off the field after Thursday’s practice as part of Bruin tradition, hoisting them above their shoulders in honor of the work they’ve done in their time with the team. Two days later, 42 players walked in the Senior Day celebration prior to the Bruins’ season finale against Fresno State at the Rose Bowl. Redshirt junior Carson Schwesinger took part in the celebration, indicating the possibility that the Butkus Award-nominated linebacker may not stay for another next season. Schwesinger and head coach DeShaun Foster said the FBS’ leading tackler has not made a decision as to whether he will go to the NFL. “He’s really going to do whatever is best for him in that situation,” Foster told reporters Wednesday. “I completely understand, especially if he gets the Butkus Award, and the way that he came out and performed this season. He deserves to get a shot and go to the NFL.” Receiver J.Michael Sturdivant also walked for Senior Day. Sturdivant, a redshirt junior, was UCLA’s third-leading receiver heading into Saturday’s game with 311 total yards and one touchdown. He averaged 31.1 yards per game. Sturdivant’s ability to stretch the field was underutilized in his two seasons at UCLA after he previously played two seasons at Cal. Offensive lineman Josh Carlin, edge rusher Oluwafemi Oladejo and defensive lineman Jay Toia each walked with the seniors Saturday and are expected to make a push for the NFL. “Incredibly grateful for the Bruin program, the UCLA program,” Oladejo told reporters Tuesday. “Came in here at the age of 19 and I’m now 21, so I’ve grown here a lot. Grown as a man, matured. Not just on the field but off the field as well. This means a lot to me.” Other notable players who took part in Senior Day: offensive lineman Garret DiGiorgio, quarterbacks Ethan Garbers and Chase Griffin, running back Keegan Jones, receiver Logan Loya, tight end Moliki Matavao and linebacker Kain Medrano. “A game like, this you want to send the seniors off on the right note,” Schwesinger said, “but on top of that, it’s being able to go out there and play competitively. We’re all here because we like to play football and you get a chance to do that, you’ve gotta go out and play your hardest.” Jordan Chiles promotes return Olympic and UCLA gymnast Jordan Chiles was in attendance for Saturday’s football game and gave a “4’s up” gesture on the big screen during the second quarter, promoting her return to UCLA. Chiles, a junior who took a year off to train for and compete in the 2024 Paris Olympics, will make her return as a Bruin for the upcoming 2025 season. She made the announcement in an interview with TODAY’s Hoda Kotb in early August. Chiles won a silver medal in 2020 to make her the most decorated Olympian in UCLA women’s gymnastics history. She scored three perfect 10s in her 2022 season as a Bruin — two in floor exercise and one on the uneven bars. She won NCAA titles in both events in 2023 and was the runner-up in the all-around at the national championships. UCLA’s gymnastics season begins with its Meet the Bruins event on Dec. 14 at Pauley Pavilion.
Market Alert: Beyond Oil (CSE: BOIL) Appoints Top Tier Food Industry Executive as COO as it Eyes a Growing Global Footprint 11-25-2024 10:54 PM CET | Business, Economy, Finances, Banking & Insurance Press release from: ABNewswire TL;DR: Beyond Oil Ltd has appointed Aviran Fine, former COO of KFC Israel, as its new COO to drive global expansion and operational efficiency. Fine's expertise in cost management and successful use of Beyond Oil's filtration technology at KFC Israel aligns with the company's sustainability goals. Recent developments, including entry into Asia and Europe and a $1.77M funding boost, highlight its focus on innovation, market growth, and leadership alignment for long-term success. Beyond Oil Ltd. (CSE: BOIL) (OTCQB: BEOLF) (Frankfurt: UH9), a forward-thinking food-tech company dedicated to innovation in health and sustainability, has signaled its strategic intent to strengthen operational capacities through the appointment of Aviran Fine as Chief Operating Officer. This development highlights the company's ongoing commitment to broadening its global footprint while reinforcing its internal capabilities, particularly amidst a period characterized by significant international expansion. Fine, who transitions from a position as COO at KFC Israel, brings with him a wealth of industry experience accrued during his tenure at internationally recognized fast-food chains such as Burger King and KFC. His remarkable journey from a line cook to a senior executive role underscores an intrinsic understanding of operational excellence and adaptive strategy, qualities that are poised to drive Beyond Oil's ambitious worldwide growth plans forward. His successful track record,marked by transformative improvements in operational efficiency and cost management, aligns seamlessly with Beyond Oil's mission to optimize its innovative solutions through expert leadership. Its rare for a CEO to comment publicly on his COO's choice to leave the company - but this seems to be one of the unique case. Shai Carmona's the CEO of KFC Israel's franchise company (MAFCO) commented on the appointment noting Aviran's strong managments skiils and the impressive results he saw first hand from the pilot conducted with Beyod Oil: "Aviran joined MAFCO about two years ago as the company's COO and immediately rushed to improve the efficiency of the company's branches and procurement. During his tenure, operational and financial data improved singnificantly by tens of percent, and savings and efficiency were noticeable from his first months of work. Aviran is moving to Beyond Oil, a young and dynamic company that is in constant growth. After a successful pilot of about a year, Beyond Oil has become an integral part of our fryers. Since the beginning of working together and using Beyond Oil's 'magic powder' for oil filtering, our operations has become even more efficient, we reduced oil consumption, saved tens of thousands of shekels, and most importantly, workers breathe clean air in the company's kitchens. I wish Aviran much success and of course to Beyond Oil." In a competitive food-tech landscape, the integration of experienced professionals like Fine could potentially enhance Beyond Oil's operational efficiency as it ramps up its market presence across continents. Recent key announcements by the company have emphasized its strategic approach to expansion, including a notable entry into Asian markets through an alliance with Hap Chan, a prominent restaurant chain in the Philippines. This move complements previous inroads into Eastern and Western European territories, indicating a deliberate effort to establish and solidify regional market footholdswith tailored strategies and partnerships. Beyond Oil's ability to secure a C$1.77 million funding injection through warrant exercises, led by strategic partner West Coast Reduction, further underscores its financial health and readiness to support its expansionary projects. This financial stability sets the stage for the effective implementation of its growth agenda, facilitated through Fine's operational insight and industry relationships, which are likely to prove instrumental in sustaining Beyond Oil's ongoing projects and scaling efforts. The appointment of Fine also underscores an important strategic alignment of leadership with Beyond Oil's innovative objectives. His firsthand experience with Beyond Oil's product during its pilot phase at KFC Israel reportedly left a strong impression, especially concerning its potential to significantly reduce costs and healthrisks associated with the use of frying oil. This practical exposure to Beyond Oil's core product offerings could facilitate a streamlined implementation of strategic initiatives, ensuring operationa coherence as the company continues to innovate within the food-techsector.Navigating the complexities of different regulatory environments, consumer preferences, and competitive pressures are vital to sustaining Beyond Oil's momentum. 2The inherent value of Fine's expertise could potentially mitigate these challenges, combining his operational insight with Beyond Oil's innovative prowess, thus optimizing product differentiation and market penetration.Recent successes in Europe, illustrated by purchase orders from significant entities like Mister Noodles in Spain, exemplify Beyond Oil's expanding influence in global markets. Complementarily, Fine's previous experience in managing complex operational systems within fast-food franchises is anticipated to bolster Beyond Oil's capabilities in logistics, supply chain management, and regulatory compliance as it navigates diverse international markets. Moreover, Beyond Oil's reported integration of its innovative oil filtration technology, heralded for its capacity to prolong oil life while maintaining quality and safety standards, signals a commitment to sustainable practices. This commitment aligns with global consumer trends favoring healthier, eco-friendly food processing solutions, potentially elevating the company's value proposition amidst increasing sustainability-focused competition. Beyond Oil's recent leadership enhancement, coupled with its robust expansion trajectory, illustrates a strategic alignment of internal expertise and market ambitions. As the company continues to navigate its evolution within the global food-tech landscape, Aviran Fine's appointment as COO may potentially play a pivotal role in optimizing operations and steering Beyond Oil towards accelerated growth and strategic success. Still, as with any market player, the path forward requires balanced execution and continuous adaptation to emerging industry trends and challenges. Read More: * Beyond Oil Secures Vote of Confidence from Strategic Partner, Raises Additional $1.77M in Funding [ https://thefinanceherald.com/beyond-oil-secures-vote-of-confidence-from-strategic-partner-raises-additional-1-77m-in-funding/ ] * Beyond Oil Accelerates Global Market Penetration with Strategic Entry into Asia [ https://venture-block.com/beyond-oil-accelerates-global-market-penetration-with-strategic-entry-into-asia/ ] * Beyond Oil Continues to Expand Globally with 16-Ton Order from Major Eastern European Player; Advances towards Industrial Frying Market [file:///Beyond%20Oil%20(CSE/%20BOIL)%20Continues%20to%20Expand%20Globally%20with%2016-Ton%20Order%20from%20Major%20Eastern%20European%20Player%3B%20Advances%20towards%20Industrial%20Frying%20Market] Image: https://www.abnewswire.com/uploads/d2d61a84dcac890534609405dcd466f2.jpg This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to serve as financial, investment or any form of professional advice, recommendation or endorsement. The article was written in collaboration with Global Markets News Network, a commercially operated digital brand compensated by the issuer (beyond oil) to provide coverage of its news and developments, among other things. Readers are encouraged to read the full disclaimers and disclosures document [ https://justpaste.it/7796t/pdf ] that the article is subject to. This article may include forward looking statements which cannot be guaranteed as discussed in the above-linked disclaimers. Media Contact Company Name: Global Markets News Network Contact Person: Editorial Desk Email:Send Email [ https://www.abnewswire.com/email_contact_us.php?pr=market-alert-beyond-oil-cse-boil-appoints-top-tier-food-industry-executive-as-coo-as-it-eyes-a-growing-global-footprint ] Country: Canada Website: https://www.futuremarketsresearch.com/global-markets-news This release was published on openPR.WACO, Texas (AP) — Sawyer Robertson threw for 310 yards and four touchdowns as Baylor won its sixth straight to keep alive its slim hopes for a berth in the Big 12 championship game, beating Kansas 45-17 on Saturday. The Bears (8-4, 6-3 Big 12) scored touchdowns on three consecutive possessions in the first half to take a 21-7 lead, then found the end zone on all three of their drives in the third quarter. Bryson Washington ran for 192 yards on 27 carries that included a 10-yard TD run and punching in from the 1 in the second half for Baylor. “I’m proud of that team in the locker room there, just the grit they showed,” Baylor coach Dave Aranda said. “To go through the season we’ve had and not let the outside on the inside, all those things are just really hard.” Kansas (5-7, 4-5) entered on a three-game winning streak — all against ranked teams — to be in position for bowl eligibility with a win. But the Jayhawks had no answers for Baylor’s offense. “It’s extremely disappointing because this team has overcome so much,” Kansas coach Lance Leipold said. “It’s been a roller-coaster year in many ways, and we didn’t fulfill expectations. We battled back. The locker room stayed together. To play a team like this that is playing really well and playing physical, and to do it on the road, is a challenge, and one that we didn’t answer.” Devin Neal ran for 133 yards and a touchdown on 20 carries for Kansas. Jalon Daniels was 12-of-23 passing for 280 yards passing, and had two passes intercepted by Baylor safety Devyn Bobby. Baylor, which started 0-3 in league play, had to wait for the outcomes of games later Saturday. Arizona had to beat Arizona State, Kansas State had to beat Iowa State and Houston had to beat BYU for the Bears to get into next week’s conference title game. “I feel like what is being built here can be sustained because of the quality of people we have," Aranda said. Robertson was 23-for-31 passing, with TDs of 36- and 39-yards to Monaray Baldwin in the first quarter before a 14-yard score to Josh Cameron in the second. Baldwin caught seven passes for 119 yards, and Cameron added eight receptions for 102. “To finish the game and the season the way we did, it’s super special," Robertson said. Kansas: The Jayhawks rarely had issues moving the ball in the first half. Despite trailing 21-10 at intermission, the Jayhawks had outgained Baylor 301-283. Their problems came with holding onto the ball and scoring when they had the chance. Tabor Allen missed a 38-yard field goal to end the Jayhawks’ first possession, and they had promising drives end on a Daniels interception and Tevita Noa fumble after a 39-yard reception. Baylor: The Bears made a remarkable turnaround in the second half of the season. They began the year with coach Dave Aranda’s future considered tenuous at best, and a 2-4 start only made calls for him to be replaced louder. But Aranda and Baylor haven’t lost since Oct. 5 against Iowa State. Baylor’s first two TDs came off the same route from Baldwin, and the second was nearly a replay of the first. Baldwin lined up in the slot to the right side in a one-on-one matchup with Kansas safety Marvin Grant and ran right by him and down the sideline. The only difference in the plays was that Baldwin had to adjust and keep his feet in bounds as he went to the ground in the end zone for the first score. Robertson hit him in stride as he crossed the goal line on the second. “He’s such a good teammate, a good athlete, fun to throw to, because he can run by anybody," Robertson said. "But it was the same route, just different formations.” Kansas’ season is over. Baylor has to wait to see when and where it will play its next game. Get poll alerts and updates on the AP Top 25 throughout the season. Sign up here . AP college football: https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-football-poll and https://apnews.com/hub/college-football Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
Introduction: The Importance of Financial Stability in Retirement Retirement is a time when the daily grind of a job may be left behind. However, for many, it brings new challenges: managing expenses on a fixed income, dealing with inflation, and ensuring their retirement savings last a lifetime. This can be a source of stress and anxiety for retirees. For retirees, ensuring financial security is a top priority—especially with the rising cost of living and uncertain market conditions. This is where financial tools such as Systematic Withdrawal Plans (SWPs) come into play, providing a much-needed relief. SWPs can offer retirees a reliable and steady income stream while allowing their investments to grow and help combat inflation. This comprehensive guide explores how retirees can leverage SWPs to manage inflation, mitigate risks, and achieve financial security. Whether you are a retiree looking for a way to supplement your pension or a soon-to-be retiree starting to plan for your future, this article provides the in-depth information you need to incorporate SWPs into your financial strategy. A Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP) is an investment mechanism that allows individuals to withdraw a fixed or variable amount of money from their mutual fund investments at regular intervals. This interval could be monthly, quarterly, or annually, depending on the investor’s preference. In contrast to lump-sum withdrawals, which can lead to cash flow management issues, SWPs provide flexibility by offering retirees the option to draw a steady stream of income. This ensures that while a portion of their investments is liquidated for withdrawals, the remaining investments continue to grow, thereby balancing income needs and future growth. Here are some key features that make SWPs a popular choice for retirees: SWPs are especially suitable for those who have accumulated a significant corpus and wish to manage it systematically over the years, ensuring that they stay within their savings. Inflation: The Silent Eroder of Retirement Savings Inflation is one of the most critical factors retirees need to account for when planning their finances. As prices rise over time, money’s purchasing power diminishes. For example, what costs `50,000 today could cost significantly more in the next 10-20 years. This means that a retiree relying on a fixed income (such as a pension) may struggle to meet expenses as the years go by. How SWPs Help Combat Inflation One of the primary advantages of a SWP is that it allows retirees to remain invested in growth-oriented assets like equity mutual funds, which have historically outpaced inflation over the long term. This means that while retirees draw a regular income, their remaining corpus can still grow at a rate higher than inflation, helping to preserve their purchasing power. Equity Exposure for Growth: 2.SWPs allow retirees to keep a portion of their portfolio invested in stocks or stock-oriented mutual funds, which have the potential to deliver higher returns over time. Stocks, though they can go up and down in value, tend to outperform inflation over the long run, which makes them a good hedge against rising costs. 3.Adjusting Withdrawals for Inflation: 4.With an SWP, retirees have the flexibility to adjust their withdrawal amounts periodically to match inflation. For instance, you can increase your monthly withdrawal by a certain percentage each year to ensure that your income keeps pace with rising living costs. If your monthly expenses increase by 5% due to inflation, you can adjust your withdrawal accordingly. 5.Avoiding Erosion of Capital: 6.By keeping the majority of your corpus invested, SWPs allow the remaining funds to grow even as you make regular withdrawals. This ensures that the impact of inflation is mitigated and your investments continue to grow. One key factor retirees must consider is tax efficiency. Retirees often have a limited income and are reliant on their savings to last through retirement. Tax efficiency plays a crucial role in ensuring that more of their money remains in their pockets rather than being eaten away by taxes. Changes in Union Budget 2024-25: The changes introduced in the Union Budget 2024-25 make long-term capital gains (LTCG) from equity mutual funds tax-free up to `1.25 lakh annually. Gains above this limit are taxed at 12.5%, slightly higher than the earlier rate of 10%. Tax Benefits of SWPs 1.Taxation on Capital Gains: 2.In an SWP, withdrawals typically consist of both the original investment (principal) and the profit (capital gains). Due to the FIFO (First-In, First-Out) method, older units are sold first, which tend to have higher capital gains. In the current regime, equity mutual funds held for more than one year qualify for tax-free capital gains up to a certain limit annually. If your total gains exceed this limit, the remaining portion is taxed at a rate of 12.5%. 3.By withdrawing systematically, retirees can control the portion of their corpus taxed each year, thus spreading their tax liability over time. 4.Tax-Exempt Dividends vs. SWPs: 5.While dividends from mutual funds used to be tax-exempt, they are now taxed at the investor’s marginal tax rate. SWPs offer a better alternative, allowing retirees to decide how much to withdraw and optimize their tax exposure. 6.Avoiding Tax on Principal: 7.Since SWPs allow you to withdraw both your principal and capital gains, the withdrawal of the principal portion is not taxed. This makes SWPs more tax-efficient compared to other withdrawal options, such as taking out a lump sum, which might push you into a higher tax bracket. 8.Tax Liability Over Time: 9.SWPs also allow you to maintain control over your tax liability by managing the timing of your withdrawals. This level of control empowers you to make strategic decisions, ensuring that you remain within a lower tax bracket and more of your savings go toward meeting your needs rather than paying taxes. By utilizing SWPs, retirees can achieve tax efficiency and ensure that their savings last longer. This advantage is significant given that many retirees rely on their investments to generate income for decades after retirement. It’s a strategy that offers long-term financial security and peace of mind. Retirement is not just about receiving a regular income but also about managing risk effectively. Retirees face a host of risks, including market volatility, inflation, healthcare costs, and the risk of outliving their savings. SWPs offer several mechanisms to manage these risks. Key Risk Management Strategies 1.Diversifying Your Portfolio: 2.Retirees are often advised to adopt a diversified investment strategy, balancing between equity and debt mutual funds. While equities offer growth potential, debt funds provide stability and help reduce overall portfolio risk. 3.A well-balanced portfolio ensures that retirees are not overly exposed to the equity market’s ups and downs. A diversified portfolio can better weather market volatility, providing consistent returns while minimizing the impact of a market downturn on income. 4.Bucket Strategy for Risk Management: 5.One of the most effective ways to manage risk in retirement is to use the “bucket strategy.” In this strategy, the retirement corpus is divided into different buckets based on time horizons: Short-Term Bucket (1-3 years): This Bucket is allocated to low-risk assets such as debt funds, liquid funds, or fixed deposits. These funds are used to meet immediate expenses and are protected from market volatility. Medium-Term Bucket (3-7 years): This portion is invested in balanced or hybrid funds, offering a blend of growth and stability. It is meant to be used once the short-term Bucket is exhausted. Long-Term Bucket (7+ years): This Bucket is invested in equity mutual funds or other growth-oriented assets. Since this portion of the corpus will not be needed for several years, it can remain invested in equities, benefiting from market growth over the long term. 1.The bucket strategy ensures that retirees have a regular income stream from low-risk assets while allowing the remainder of their portfolio to grow. It also minimizes the need to sell equity investments during a market downturn, thus protecting long-term returns. Now that we understand how SWPs help manage risk, inflation, and taxes, let’s discuss how to create a sustainable withdrawal strategy. A well-planned withdrawal strategy is essential to ensuring that your retirement savings last for the rest of your life. Step 1: Assess Your Income Needs Assessing your income needs is essential before setting up a SWP. Consider your current monthly expenses and factor in inflation for future expenses. Also, account for healthcare costs, travel, lifestyle changes, and any other expected expenses. Step 2: Determine Your Withdrawal Rate A critical factor in the sustainability of a SWP is the withdrawal rate. Financial experts often recommend starting with a 9% withdrawal rate of your corpus. This rate allows you to maintain a steady income while giving your investments time to grow. However, it is essential to revisit this rate periodically and adjust it based on market performance and your personal needs. For example, reduce your withdrawal rate during a market downturn to preserve capital. Step 3: Choose the Right Mutual Funds Selecting the right mutual funds is crucial for the success of your SWP. Based on your risk tolerance, you’ll want to balance your portfolio with a mix of equity and debt funds. Equity funds offer growth potential, while debt funds provide stability and regular income. Step 4: Set Up the SWP Once you have assessed your needs, determined your withdrawal rate, and chosen your mutual funds, it is time to set up your SWP. Most mutual fund houses allow you to set up an SWP with ease. You must decide the amount and frequency of withdrawals (monthly, quarterly, etc.). Step 5: Monitor and Adjust Retirement planning is not a one-time event; it requires continuous monitoring and adjustment. Keep an eye on your portfolio’s performance and make adjustments as needed. For instance, you might want to increase your withdrawals if inflation rises. Similarly, if the market is performing well, you might consider withdrawing a bit more to enjoy your golden years to the fullest. Conclusion: The Power of SWPs for Retirees Systematic Withdrawal Plans (SWPs) offer retirees a powerful tool to achieve financial freedom, balance income needs with growth, and mitigate risks like inflation and market volatility. By understanding how to leverage SWPs—through careful planning, tax efficiency, and risk management—retirees can create a sustainable income stream that lasts through their retirement years. Whether nearing retirement or enjoying your golden years, SWPs provide a flexible, reliable, and tax-efficient solution to securing financial stability in an uncertain world. Take control of your financial future with SWPs and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing your retirement is secure. Disclaimer The information provided in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, legal, or investment advice. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information, the author and publisher assume no responsibility for errors, inaccuracies, omissions, or any other inconsistencies. Disclosure The author may have a financial interest in the topics discussed in this article. The content is based on the author’s personal experiences, research, and knowledge and is intended to provide general insights into the subject matter. About the Author Taresh Bhatia is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER and a Coach at the Richness Academy. With years of experience in guiding individuals and families toward financial freedom, Taresh specializes in helping clients achieve a rich and fulfilling life by aligning their financial decisions with their personal values and long-term goals.VANCOUVER, British Columbia — Thunderbird Entertainment Group Inc. (TSXV: TBRD, OTCQX: THBRF) (“Thunderbird” or the “Company”) has granted an aggregate amount of 143,317 restricted share units (the “RSUs”) to its non-executive directors on November 25, 2024, pursuant to the terms of the Company’s equity incentive compensation plan. The RSUs will vest on December 14, 2024. Each vested RSU entitles the holder thereof to receive one common share of the Company. The Company also granted an aggregate amount of 171,606 RSUs to certain members of the Company’s executive management team, pursuant to the terms of the Company’s equity incentive compensation plan. The RSUs will vest over three years, and each vested RSU entitles the holder to receive one common share of the Company. Additionally, 400,412 performance share units (“PSUs”) were granted to certain members of the Company’s executive management team, based on certain performance targets to be met. Subject to the satisfaction of such performance targets, the PSUs will vest on the one-year anniversary of the date of the grant. Each vested PSU entitles the holder to receive one common share of the Company (or can be paid out in cash at the discretion of the Company’s board of directors). Thunderbird Entertainment Inc. (“TEI”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company, has also entered into an Addendum to the Executive Employment Agreement dated July 1, 2021 between TEI and Jennifer Twiner McCarron, the CEO of the Company (the “Addendum”). Under the terms of the Addendum, effective from July 1, 2024, Ms. Twiner McCarron has agreed to forego a guaranteed bonus and has agreed to a bonus structure that ensures eligibility for annual short term incentive payments is driven entirely by performance based on the achievement of AEBITDA targets and strategic objectives established by the Company’s board of directors. For information on Thunderbird and to subscribe to the Company’s investor list for news updates, go to . Thunderbird Entertainment Group is a global award-winning, full-service multiplatform production, distribution and rights management company, headquartered in Vancouver, with additional offices in Los Angeles and Ottawa. Thunderbird creates award-winning scripted, unscripted, and animated programming for the world’s leading digital platforms, as well as Canadian and international broadcasters. The Company develops, produces, and distributes animated, factual, and scripted content through its various content arms, including Thunderbird Kids and Family (Atomic Cartoons), Thunderbird Unscripted (Great Pacific Media) and Thunderbird Scripted. Productions under the Thunderbird umbrella include and . Thunderbird Distribution and Thunderbird Brands manage global media and consumer products rights, respectively, for the Company and select third parties. Thunderbird is on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram at @tbirdent. For more information, visit: . Thunderbird’s public communications may include written, or oral “forward-looking statements” and “forward-looking information” as defined under applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking statements or information may be identified by words such as “anticipate”, “continue”, “estimate”, “expect”, “forecast”, “may”, “will”, “plan”, “project”, “should”, “believe”, “intend”, or similar expressions concerning matters that are not historical facts. Forward-looking statements in this document include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to the vesting schedule of the RSUs, the PSUs, and the achievement of certain performance objectives relating to Ms. Twiner McCarron’s performance bonus entitlements. Forward-looking statements are necessarily based on a number of estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable, are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause actual results and future events to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such factors include, but are not limited to: general business, economic and social uncertainties; litigation, legislative, environmental and other judicial, regulatory, political and competitive developments; product capability and acceptance; and other factors set out in the “Risk and Uncertainty” section of the Company’s MD&A dated June 30, 2024. The foregoing is not an exhaustive list. Additional risks and uncertainties not presently known to Thunderbird or that management believes to be less significant may also adversely affect the Company. The forward-looking statements or information contained in this document represent the Company’s views as of the date hereof, and therefore such information should not be relied upon as representing the Company’s views as of any date subsequent to the date of this document. The Company’s actual results, performance or achievement could differ materially from those expressed in, or implied by, these forward-looking statements and, accordingly, no assurance can be given that any of the events anticipated by the forward-looking statements will transpire or occur, or if any of them do so, what benefits the Company will derive therefrom. Readers are therefore cautioned that the foregoing lists of important factors are not exhaustive, and they should not unduly rely on the forward-looking statements included in this news release. All forward-looking statements contained in this news release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. Thunderbird has no intention, and 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 law. Glen Akselrod, Bristol Capital Phone: + 1 905 326 1888 ext 1 Email: Lana Castleman, Director, Marketing & Communications Phone: 416-219-3769 Email: Julia Smith, Finch Media Email:SLP, Mexico – The U.S. humanitarian organization Operation Walk traveled to Cuba to perform around 70 free surgeries on Cuban patients suffering from arthritis or other bone and joint conditions. The surgical procedures took place since November 7 at the “Fructuoso Rodríguez” Teaching Orthopedic Hospital in Havana and continued until November 13. This time, 64 members of Operation Walk traveled to the Cuban capital, the highest number in the organization’s 25 visits to the island, as highlighted by the official press. Amid the critical healthcare crisis facing the island, around 70 people are receiving knee and hip prostheses. “Hip and knee replacements are very complex surgeries that require skilled medical talent. They help people who need them live free from pain and disability, and even return to work and feel socially useful,” said Roberto Balmaseda, the hospital’s director. However, he did not mention how many such operations are currently performed in Cuba or how many specialists the hospital has for these procedures. For its part, the organization wrote on social media on November 12: “It’s been a challenge, from hurricanes to flight delays to power outages. No matter the obstacle, we overcame them one by one to restore mobility to patients who had been waiting two years for our return.” According to the Cuban Ministry of Health, philanthropists Jill Baffert and Barbara Jordan provided the medical equipment for the surgeries, donating hip kits and IV poles for the procedures. On the official MINSAP website, when the surgeries were announced, some Cubans questioned the selection process for patients, as they were unaware of how it was carried out. One of the Cubans who left a comment mentioned being registered at the Fructuoso Rodríguez hospital for a total hip replacement. However, he claimed he was unaware of the selection process for patients to be operated on through Operation Walk. “I don’t even know if I’m still on that list after almost two years. If I remember correctly, I think I was number 229 on the ranking of that list,” he wrote. The group of U.S. volunteer doctors has been performing joint replacement surgeries in Cuba since 1997, while also “training” the island’s doctors. “Today, we returned to Cuba. 28 years of shared history between OpWalk and the medical community in Havana. To put it simply, we came back home,” emphasized the organization’s co-directors, Paul Gilbert and William Long. Sigue nuestro canal de WhatsApp . Recibe la información de CubaNet en tu celular a través de Telegram.
The world is frightened for a reason Donald Trump’s resounding win in the US elections has frightened the world in a way never seen since the end of the Cold War. In numerous world capitols there is dread and anxiety. In a few cases, there is a sense of exultation too. At home, immigrants and even naturalized US citizens seem worried. In his previous term, Trump left deep divisions and inflicted grievous scars on US society. Racism spiked to unprecedented levels. Such is the fear that Australia’s ambassador to the USA rushed to delete his social media posts criticizing Trump. Trump’s mercurial predisposition, his transactional approach, besides his aversion to a liberal world order, is viewed by analysts as his most worrisome personality trait. His loathing of constitutional and democratic norms, superficial knowledge of international security matters coupled with authoritarian bent, reminds one of the rise of Adolf Hitler in 1933. The two differ only in political creed, Lebensraum (living space) and America First, yet both share an identical state of mind. One need not cite how Hitler’s undisguised ambitions changed the course of world history. Hitler’s propaganda tsar Goebbels once remarked, “Give me resources and I will make the people believe the Devil is God”. Would it be farfetched to surmise that had Hitler not been on the global scene, there would have been no nuclear weapons on the planet? For Trump, climate change is a ‘big hoax’. The world worries if he will honour the Paris agreement this time around. Regardless, the worldwide interest, fear and jubilation produced by Trump’s second win clearly lead to one simple conclusion: the USA is still the ‘most powerful actor in the international system’. This is true in the military, economic and technological sense of the term. China, a peer competitor of the USA, in several ways still lags behind. But Trump will inherit a world different to what it was in his previous tenure. In theatres like Russia- Ukraine and Israel-Lebanon, belligerents show strategic exhaustion. Putin is not likely to be an easy diplomatic win-over by Trump especially, given his recent success on ground against Ukraine. His pre-negotiation condition that Ukraine will not join NATO at any cost may be unacceptable to Europe and to the US establishment. Iran though quite weak had, before now placed its nuclear programme on a fast track after Trump pulled out from JCPOA in his previous term. The Houthis are vibrant with enough potential to imperil international shipping in the Red Sea. Both Hamas and Hezbollah are degraded but far from being demolished. In a most recent rocket barrage fired by Hezbollah from Lebanon, the major Israeli port city of Haifa came under attack. While some rockets were reportedly intercepted mid-air, the attack confirms Hezbollah’s resilience and enduring capacity. Meanwhile, with the US power diluted in three theatres, China stands stronger in the western Pacific than at any other time since the onset of this century. But with a toxically hawkish anti-China nominee, Mark Rubio, as Trump’s Secretary of State, what should one make of the US naval chief’s recent memorandum asking the US navy to be ready for possible war in the Pacific in 2027? In early September this year, Adm Lisa Franchetti, the Chief of Naval Operations US navy, released her seven-goal plan for war. She described her plan while addressing student officers at the US Naval War College, Newport, Rhode Island. The goals include, ‘streamlining maintenance for warships and submarines to eliminate delays, a bigger push to develop and field drones and unmanned vessels, and focusing on recruitment and ways to retain personnel’. According to the US naval chief, at the heart of her strategy is, ‘prioritizing raising the US navy level of readiness for potential conflict with China’s PLA navy in 2027’. Year 2027 is projected by US analysts as the time by which China would be militarily strong enough and fully ready to invade Taiwan. The year will fall in Trump’s new watch in White House that begins in January 2025. He will have established himself firmly in office by then. And along with his team Trump would have advanced his agenda at home and abroad. Will Trump reinforce Admiral Franchetti’s plan and push more aggressively against China in the Pacific, or is he likely to backtrack under America First mantra? There may be no easy answers but if Trump’s earlier performance as President and his choice of new team is any measure, China will be the topmost foe; India the foremost strategic ally and without question Israel the greatest beneficiary. For India however, the most difficult act would be managing a further push against China when asked by Trump. India’s economic stakes in Beijing are fairly high and it is yet to recover from its 2020 thrashing in Ladakh. History, old and recent, shows there are limits to military power. In the Middle East Trump’s previous Abraham accords are now in the dustbin of history. No Arab leader is currently in a position to do the US bidding for peace with Israel, unless the issue of Palestine is resolved. In Australia, meanwhile, apprehensions are widespread about the continuity of AUKUS, a technological arrangement between Canberra, London and Washington aimed at equipping Australia with 8 Virgina -class nuclear attack submarines from Washington. Australia fears that under the America First refrain, Trump may annul the agreement on the pretext of arming firstly the US Navy, already short of such submarines. Trump’s philosophy of uninhibited use of US power to upend the world and change the USA domestically will soon bump into ground realities. Mass deportations and use of the military for political purposes is bound to create unimaginable chaos at home. The world meanwhile sits on edge as do millions on the US soil. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Δ document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() );WACO, Texas (AP) — Sawyer Robertson threw for 310 yards and four touchdowns as Baylor won its sixth straight to keep alive its slim hopes for a berth in the Big 12 championship game, beating Kansas 45-17 on Saturday. The Bears (8-4, 6-3 Big 12) scored touchdowns on three consecutive possessions in the first half to take a 21-7 lead, then found the end zone on all three of their drives in the third quarter. Bryson Washington ran for 192 yards on 27 carries that included a 10-yard TD run and punching in from the 1 in the second half for Baylor. “I’m proud of that team in the locker room there, just the grit they showed,” Baylor coach Dave Aranda said. “To go through the season we’ve had and not let the outside on the inside, all those things are just really hard.” Kansas (5-7, 4-5) entered on a three-game winning streak — all against ranked teams — to be in position for bowl eligibility with a win. But the Jayhawks had no answers for Baylor’s offense. “It’s extremely disappointing because this team has overcome so much,” Kansas coach Lance Leipold said. “It’s been a roller-coaster year in many ways, and we didn’t fulfill expectations. We battled back. The locker room stayed together. To play a team like this that is playing really well and playing physical, and to do it on the road, is a challenge, and one that we didn’t answer.” Devin Neal ran for 133 yards and a touchdown on 20 carries for Kansas. Jalon Daniels was 12-of-23 passing for 280 yards passing, and had two passes intercepted by Baylor safety Devyn Bobby. Baylor, which started 0-3 in league play, had to wait for the outcomes of games later Saturday. Arizona had to beat Arizona State, Kansas State had to beat Iowa State and Houston had to beat BYU for the Bears to get into next week’s conference title game. “I feel like what is being built here can be sustained because of the quality of people we have," Aranda said. Robertson was 23-for-31 passing, with TDs of 36- and 39-yards to Monaray Baldwin in the first quarter before a 14-yard score to Josh Cameron in the second. Baldwin caught seven passes for 119 yards, and Cameron added eight receptions for 102. “To finish the game and the season the way we did, it’s super special," Robertson said. Kansas: The Jayhawks rarely had issues moving the ball in the first half. Despite trailing 21-10 at intermission, the Jayhawks had outgained Baylor 301-283. Their problems came with holding onto the ball and scoring when they had the chance. Tabor Allen missed a 38-yard field goal to end the Jayhawks’ first possession, and they had promising drives end on a Daniels interception and Tevita Noa fumble after a 39-yard reception. Baylor: The Bears made a remarkable turnaround in the second half of the season. They began the year with coach Dave Aranda’s future considered tenuous at best, and a 2-4 start only made calls for him to be replaced louder. But Aranda and Baylor haven’t lost since Oct. 5 against Iowa State. Baylor’s first two TDs came off the same route from Baldwin, and the second was nearly a replay of the first. Baldwin lined up in the slot to the right side in a one-on-one matchup with Kansas safety Marvin Grant and ran right by him and down the sideline. The only difference in the plays was that Baldwin had to adjust and keep his feet in bounds as he went to the ground in the end zone for the first score. Robertson hit him in stride as he crossed the goal line on the second. “He’s such a good teammate, a good athlete, fun to throw to, because he can run by anybody," Robertson said. "But it was the same route, just different formations.” Kansas’ season is over. Baylor has to wait to see when and where it will play its next game. Get poll alerts and updates on the AP Top 25 throughout the season. Sign up here . AP college football: https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-football-poll and https://apnews.com/hub/college-footballAn online debate over foreign workers in tech shows tensions in Trump's political coalition