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Stock Traders Purchase Large Volume of Call Options on Faraday Future Intelligent Electric (NASDAQ:FFIE)Agilent Technologies, Inc. ( NYSE:A – Get Free Report ) announced a quarterly dividend on Wednesday, November 20th, Wall Street Journal reports. Stockholders of record on Tuesday, December 31st will be paid a dividend of 0.248 per share by the medical research company on Wednesday, January 22nd. This represents a $0.99 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 0.73%. The ex-dividend date is Tuesday, December 31st. This is a boost from Agilent Technologies’s previous quarterly dividend of $0.24. Agilent Technologies has raised its dividend payment by an average of 19.0% annually over the last three years. Agilent Technologies has a payout ratio of 17.8% meaning its dividend is sufficiently covered by earnings. Equities analysts expect Agilent Technologies to earn $6.16 per share next year, which means the company should continue to be able to cover its $0.99 annual dividend with an expected future payout ratio of 16.1%. Agilent Technologies Price Performance A stock opened at $135.54 on Friday. The firm has a 50-day moving average of $135.33 and a 200 day moving average of $136.57. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.57, a current ratio of 2.09 and a quick ratio of 1.58. The company has a market cap of $38.71 billion, a P/E ratio of 30.67, a PEG ratio of 4.48 and a beta of 1.07. Agilent Technologies has a 1 year low of $124.16 and a 1 year high of $155.35. Analyst Ratings Changes A number of research firms have recently weighed in on A. JPMorgan Chase & Co. reduced their target price on shares of Agilent Technologies from $165.00 to $160.00 and set an “overweight” rating on the stock in a research report on Tuesday, November 26th. Bank of America cut their price objective on shares of Agilent Technologies from $153.00 to $150.00 and set a “neutral” rating on the stock in a report on Friday, December 13th. Evercore ISI lifted their target price on shares of Agilent Technologies from $135.00 to $145.00 and gave the company an “in-line” rating in a report on Tuesday, October 1st. Wells Fargo & Company cut their price target on Agilent Technologies from $157.00 to $155.00 and set an “overweight” rating on the stock in a research note on Monday, December 9th. Finally, Sanford C. Bernstein lowered their price objective on Agilent Technologies from $140.00 to $135.00 and set a “market perform” rating for the company in a research note on Tuesday, November 26th. One research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, six have given a hold rating and eight have assigned a buy rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, the company currently has an average rating of “Hold” and an average target price of $143.62. View Our Latest Analysis on Agilent Technologies Agilent Technologies Company Profile ( Get Free Report ) Agilent Technologies, Inc provides application focused solutions to the life sciences, diagnostics, and applied chemical markets worldwide. The company operates in three segments: Life Sciences and Applied Markets, Diagnostics and Genomics, and Agilent CrossLab. The Life Sciences and Applied Markets segment offers liquid chromatography systems and components; liquid chromatography mass spectrometry systems; gas chromatography systems and components; gas chromatography mass spectrometry systems; inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry instruments; atomic absorption instruments; microwave plasma-atomic emission spectrometry instruments; inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry instruments; raman spectroscopy; cell analysis plate based assays; flow cytometer; real-time cell analyzer; cell imaging systems; microplate reader; laboratory software; information management and analytics; laboratory automation and robotic systems; dissolution testing; and vacuum pumps, and measurement technologies. Featured Stories Receive News & Ratings for Agilent Technologies Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Agilent Technologies and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter .
NoneThe People's Party Of Canada has seemingly faded from the scene. The party that went by that name has been largely inactive. But the political ferment and fervour once associated with that movement have grown more intense as it has been mimicked by Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre. There is one difference between then and now that could alter that trajectory. The PPC was driven largely by conservatism. It never had a singular leader of its own whose brand was a driving force in itself. The current movement is essentially copycatted by Poilievre. Its future, short-term and long, will depend largely on him. So imagine my bewilderment when Poilievre's mysterious turnaround from Harper to far right came. Most became aware of Poilievre's shortcomings – and continue to compensate for them. Perhaps, they view their leader as a self-regulatory strategy, riding the disciplinary coattails of the more fortunate and experienced politicos. Taken together, within the social self-regulatory process, by which we draw close to others to compensate for our own flaws, the overwhelming evidence suggests that the two leaders and their platforms couldn't possibly be any different. Perhaps the mere presence of Poilievre signals the fall of actual conservatism. But there remains the possibility that should Poilievre be more of an albatross for his party, it would indeed be an irony if he ultimately saved Bernier from another political shellacking.
Pacers push to build momentum, take advantage of bruised Blazers
Boston Fleet fall 3-1 at Toronto in PWHL season-opening gameCommanders Release First-Round Pick From Last Year's DraftBy Michelle Marchante, Miami Herald (TNS) MIAMI — As her students finished their online exam, Arlet Lara got up to make a cafe con leche . Her 16-year-old son found her on the kitchen floor. First, he called Dad in a panic. Then 911. “I had a stroke and my life made a 180-degree turn,” Lara told the Miami Herald, recalling the medical scare she experienced in May 2020 in the early months of the COVID pandemic. “The stroke affected my left side of the body,” the North Miami woman and former high school math teacher said. Lara, an avid runner and gym goer, couldn’t even walk. “It was hard,” the 50-year-old mom said. After years of rehabilitation therapy and a foot surgery, Lara can walk again. But she still struggles with moving. This summer, she became the first patient in South Florida to get an implant of a new and only FDA-approved nerve stimulation device designed to help ischemic stroke survivors regain movement in their arms and hands. This first procedure was at Jackson Memorial Hospital in Miami. Lara’s rehab was at at the Christine E. Lynn Rehabilitation Center for The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, part of a partnership between Jackson Health System and UHealth. Every year, thousands in the United States have a stroke , with one occurring every 40 seconds, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The majority of strokes are ischemic, often caused by blood clots that obstruct blood flow to the brain. For survivors, most of whom are left with some level of disability, the Vivistim Paired VNS System, the device implanted in Lara’s chest, could be a game changer in recovery, said Dr. Robert Starke, a UHealth neurosurgeon and interventional neuroradiologist. He also serves as co-director of endovascular neurosurgery at Jackson Memorial Hospital, part of Miami-Dade’s public hospital system. Arlet Lara, the first patient in South Florida to get an FDA-approved nerve stimulation implant, right, runs into her rehabilitation neurology physician Dr. Gemayaret Alvarez, before her physical therapy appointment on Monday, Sept. 9, 2024, at Lynn Rehabilitation Center at Jackson Memorial Hospital. The implant is designed to help stroke survivors regain function in their arms. (Alie Skowronski/Miami Herald/TNS) Arlet Lara, the first patient in South Florida to get an FDA-approved nerve stimulation implant designed to help stroke survivors regain function in their arms, goes through exercises while her therapist activates the device during her physical therapy appointment on Monday, Sept. 9, 2024, at Lynn Rehabilitation Center at Jackson Memorial Hospital. The activation works as positive reinforcement to her muscles when she completes the exercise correctly. (Alie Skowronski/Miami Herald/TNS) Arlet Lara, the first patient in South Florida to get an FDA-approved nerve stimulation implant, does an exercise while Neil Batungbakal, rehabilitation therapist, activates the implant with the black trigger during her physical therapy appointment on Monday, Sept. 9, 2024, at Lynn Rehabilitation Center at Jackson Memorial Hospital. The implant is designed to help stroke survivors regain function in their arms. The activation works as positive reinforcement to her muscles when she completes the exercise correctly. (Alie Skowronski/Miami Herald/TNS) Arlet Lara, the first patient in South Florida to get an FDA- approved nerve stimulation implant, does an exercise while Neil Batungbakal, rehabilitation therapist, activates the implant with the black trigger during her physical therapy appointment on Monday, Sept. 9, 2024, at Lynn Rehabilitation Center at Jackson Memorial Hospital. Arlet Lara, the first patient in South Florida to get an FDA-approved nerve stimulation implant, right, runs into her rehabilitation neurology physician Dr. Gemayaret Alvarez, before her physical therapy appointment on Monday, Sept. 9, 2024, at Lynn Rehabilitation Center at Jackson Memorial Hospital. The implant is designed to help stroke survivors regain function in their arms. (Alie Skowronski/Miami Herald/TNS) The Vivistim Paired VNS System is a small pacemaker-like device implanted in the upper chest and neck area. Patients can go home the same day. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved the stroke rehabilitation system in 2021 to be used alongside post-ischemic stroke rehabilitation therapy to treat moderate to severe mobility issues in hands and arms. Lara’s occupational therapist can activate the device during rehabilitation sessions to electrically stimulate the vagus nerve, which runs from the brain down to the abdomen and regulates various parts of the body’s nervous system. The electrical stimulation rewires the brain to improve a stroke survivor’s ability to move their arms and hands. Lara also has a magnet she can use to activate the device when she wants to practice at home. Her therapy consists of repetitive tasks, including coloring, pinching cubes and grabbing and releasing cylindrical shapes. After several weeks of rehabilitation therapy with the device, Lara has seen improvement. “Little by little, I’m noticing that my hand is getting stronger. I am already able to brush my teeth with the left hand,” she told the Miami Herald in September. Since then, Lara has finished the initial six-week Vivitism therapy program, and is continuing to use the device in her rehabilitation therapy. She continues to improve and can now eat better with her left hand and can brush her hair with less difficulty, according to her occupational therapist, Neil Batungbakal. Lara learned about the device through an online group for stroke survivors and contacted the company to inquire. She then connected them with her Jackson medical team. Now a year later, the device is available to Jackson patients. So far, four patients have received the implant at Jackson. Related Articles Health | Washington power has shifted. Here’s how the ACA may shift, too Health | CDC chief urges focus on health threats as agency confronts political changes Health | New rule allows HIV-positive organ transplants Health | Biden proposes Medicare and Medicaid cover costly weight-loss drugs for millions of obese Americans Health | Do not wash your turkey and other Thanksgiving tips to keep your food safe Starke sees the device as an opportunity to help bring survivors one step closer to regaining full mobility. Strokes are a leading cause of disability worldwide. While most stroke survivors can usually recover some function through treatment and rehabilitation, they tend to hit a “major plateau” after the first six months of recovery, he said. Vivistim, when paired with rehabilitation therapy, could change that. Jackson Health said results of a clinical trial published in the peer-reviewed medical journal The Lancet in 2021 showed that the device, “when paired with high-repetition, task-specific occupational or physical therapy, helps generate two to three times more hand and arm function for stroke survivors than rehabilitation therapy alone.” The device has even shown to benefit patients 20 years from their original stroke, according to Starke. “So now a lot of these patients that had strokes 10-15 years ago that thought that they would never be able to use their arm in any sort of real functional way are now able to have a real meaningful function, which is pretty tremendous,” Starke said. Vivistim’s vagus-nerve stimulation technology was developed by researchers at the University of Texas at Dallas’ Texas Biomedical Device Center and is being sold commercially by Austin-based MicroTransponder, a company started by university graduates. Similar devices are used to treat epilepsy and depression . For Lara, the device is a new tool to help her recovery journey. “Everything becomes a challenge so we are working with small things every day because I want to get back as many functions as possible,” Lara said. Patients interested in Vivistim should speak with their doctor to check their eligibility. The FDA said patients should make sure to discuss any prior medical history, including concurrent forms of brain stimulation, current diathermy treatment, previous brain surgery, depression, respiratory diseases and disorders such as asthma, and cardiac abnormalities. “Adverse events included but were not limited to dysphonia (difficulty speaking), bruising, falling, general hoarseness, general pain, hoarseness after surgery, low mood, muscle pain, fracture, headache, rash, dizziness, throat irritation, urinary tract infection and fatigue,” the FDA said. MicroTransponder says the device is “covered by Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance with prior authorization on a case-by-case basis.” To learn more about the device, visit vivistim.com. ©2024 Miami Herald. Visit at miamiherald.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Click to share on X (Opens in new window) Most Popular Let it burn: Days-old underground fire at Williamsburg outlet mall could smolder for a week Let it burn: Days-old underground fire at Williamsburg outlet mall could smolder for a week Neighbors get into argument before fatal shooting, Hampton police say Neighbors get into argument before fatal shooting, Hampton police say Underground fire still burning at Williamsburg Premium Outlets; officials advise caution Underground fire still burning at Williamsburg Premium Outlets; officials advise caution Teel: Return as columnist at The Virginian-Pilot and Daily Press is a privilege Teel: Return as columnist at The Virginian-Pilot and Daily Press is a privilege One nation, under watch: Flock Safety cameras help the police solve crime. But how much should privacy matter? One nation, under watch: Flock Safety cameras help the police solve crime. But how much should privacy matter? 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James Van Der Beek selling 'Varsity Blues' jerseys to help pay for cancer treatment costsLos Angeles Chargers (7-4) at Atlanta (6-5) Sunday, 1 p.m. EST, CBS BetMGM NFL Odds: Chargers by 1 1/2 Series record: Falcons lead 8-4. Against the spread: Chargers 7-3-1, Falcons 5-6. Last meeting: Chargers beat Falcons 20-17 on Nov. 6, 2022, in Atlanta. Last week: Ravens beat Chargers, 30-23; Falcons had bye week following 38-6 loss at Denver on Nov. 17. Chargers offense: overall (21), rush (13), pass (20), scoring (18). Chargers defense: overall (13), rush (10), pass (10), scoring (13). Falcons offense: overall (8), rush (14), pass (5), scoring (16). Falcons defense: overall (25), rush (19), pass (26), scoring (26). Turnover differential: Chargers plus-8, Falcons minus-3. RB Gus Edwards will move up as the lead back for Los Angeles after J.K Dobbins (knee) was placed on injured reserve on Saturday. Edwards was activated from IR earlier this month following an ankle injury and had nine carries for 11 yards with a touchdown in Monday night's 30-23 loss to Baltimore. WR Drake London has 61 catches, leaving him four away from becoming the first player in team history to have at least 65 receptions in each of his first three seasons. London has 710 receiving yards, leaving him 140 away from becoming the first player in team history with at least 850 in each of his first three seasons. Falcons RB Bijan Robinson vs. Chargers' run defense. Robinson was shut down by Denver, gaining only 35 yards on 12 carries, and the Atlanta offense couldn't recover. The Chargers rank 10th in the league against the run, so it will be a challenge for the Falcons to find a way to establish a ground game with Robinson and Tyler Allgeier. A solid running attack would create an opportunity for offensive coordinator Zac Robinson to establish the play-action passes for quarterback Kirk Cousins. Besides Dobbins, the Chargers also placed S Alohi Gilman (hamstring) on injured reserve. CB Cam Hart (ankle) and LB Denzel Perryman (groin) also have been ruled out. ... The Falcons needed the bye to give a long list of injured players an opportunity to heal. WR WR KhaDarel Hodge (neck) did not practice on Wednesday. WR Darnell Mooney (Achilles), CB Kevin King (concussion), DL Zach Harrison (knee, Achilles) and WR Casey Washington (concussion) were hurt in the 38-6 loss at Denver on Nov. 17 and were limited on Wednesday. CB Mike Hughes (neck), nickel back Dee Alford (hamstring), ILB Troy Andersen (knee), TE Charlie Woerner (concussion) and ILB JD Bertrand (concussion) also were limited on Wednesday after not playing against Denver. C Drew Dalman (ankle) could return. The Chargers have won the past three games in the series following six consecutive wins by the Falcons from 1991-2012. Los Angeles took a 33-30 overtime win in Atlanta in 2016 before the Chargers added 20-17 wins at home in 2020 and in Atlanta in 2022. The Falcons won the first meeting between the teams, 41-0 in San Diego in 1973. Each team has built its record on success against the soft NFC South. Atlanta is 4-1 against division rivals. Los Angeles is 2-0 against the NFC South this season. The Chargers have a four-game winning streak against the division. ... Atlanta is 0-2 against AFC West teams, following a 22-17 loss to Kansas City and the lopsided loss at Denver. The Falcons will complete their tour of the AFC West with a game at the Las Vegas Raiders on Dec. 16. ... The Falcons are the league's only first-place team with a negative points differential. Atlanta has been outscored 274-244. The loss of Dobbins, who has rushed for eight touchdowns, could put more pressure on QB Justin Hebert and the passing game. Herbert's favorite option has been WR Ladd McConkey, who has four TD receptions among his 49 catches for 698 yards. McConkey, the former University of Georgia standout who was drafted in the second round, could enjoy a productive return to the state against a Falcons defense that ranks only 26th against the pass. AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/nfl6,000 inmates escape from a high-security prison as post-election violence roils Mozambique
South Korea's lawmakers on Friday voted to impeach acting President Han Duck-soo, in the second head-of-state ousting this month after a short-lived martial decree on Dec. 3, according to South Korean news agency Yonhap . > Watch NBC Bay Area News 📺 Streaming free 24/7 Finance Minister Choi Sang-mok is next in line to take on the mantle of the acting presidency, according to South Korean law. Han's predecessor, President Yoon Suk Yeol, was impeached a mere two weeks prior , after imposing martial law for six hours at the start of the month for the first time since the military coup of 1979, citing the need to "protect the constitutional order based on freedom and eradicate shameful pro-North Korea anti-state groups, that are stealing freedom and happiness of our people," according to NBC News . Opposition lawmakers brought the motion against Han on Thursday over the acting president's reluctance to immediately appoint three justices in the Constitutional Court, which is preparing to kick off deliberations on upholding Yoon's impeachment or reinstating him. Han's ruling Power People Party has argued that filling the Constitutional Court vacancies exceeds Han's mandate as acting president. The Constitutional Court held a first hearing on Yoon's case on Friday and has 180 days to reach its conclusion. A simple 151 majority, rather than two-thirds of parliamentary support, was required to pass the Friday vote. The assembly approved Han's impeachment motion with 192-0 in favor, while governing party lawmakers boycotted the poll, according to a Google-translated Yonhap update . The agency reports that acting Han has said he will respect the Friday decision. Han's own impeachment plunges South Korea into renewed political turbulence, shaking the foundations of its democratic success story and driving the Korean won down 0.40% to 1,472.22 after the Friday news. South Korea's Kospi slid 1.02% during the Friday session . Earlier on Friday, the Finance Ministry's Choi warned of the economic and security impact of Han's impeachment vote on Asia's fourth-largest economy. "In a time of global trade wars and national emergencies, the absence of a control tower for state affairs would cause severe damage to our country's credibility, economy, national security and governance continuity," Choi said, according to Yonhap . The International Monetary Fund projects 2.5% growth in South Korea's gross domestic product for 2024, and also a 2.5% inflation print over the period.Nigeria is currently ranked sixth on the list of Africa's visa openness index marking a significant improvement The ease with which visitors can obtain permission to visit and enter a country is known as visa openness This implies that a country is more visa-open if it makes it easier for tourists to visit according to a new report CHECK OUT: Education is Your Right! Don’t Let Social Norms Hold You Back. Learn Online with LEGIT. Enroll Now! Legit.ng journalist Zainab Iwayemi has 5-year-experience covering the Economy, Technology, and Capital Market . Nigeria is currently number six in Africa, a notable improvement in the continent's visa openness index that shows how easy it is to get a visa from Nigeria. Visa openness is the ease with which travelers can get authorization to go to and enter a country, pending final determination by the destination immigration officers, according to new reports from the African Development Bank (AfDB) and other sources. This Day reported that this suggests that the easier it is for a traveler to visit a country, the more visa-open that country is. Read also UBA to open another branch in Saudi Arabia after expanding to France PAY ATTENTION: Follow us on Instagram - get the most important news directly in your favourite app! Last year, the AfDB released its Africa Visa Openness Index, noting that the continent had made strides in granting visas to facilitate cross-border travel, increase trade, investment, and regional integration. The new diplomatic behavior has been adopted by many nations in the region, including Nigeria, and visa issuing is becoming more liberal. Nigeria was ranked sixth on the African Development Bank's 2024 AfDB AVOI (Africa Visa Open Index), according to Ambassador Ikechi Uko, a travel specialist and the organizer of the Akwaaba African Travel Market. He called the development "massive" and noted that Nigeria has made significant strides in being the sixth most open nation in Africa out of 54. “Seen before as a difficult country to visit by Africans, the continuous improvement is noteworthy. In January 2020, President Buhari announced that all Africans could visit Nigeria with a visa on arrival. Read also Bitcoin crosses $100,000 for first time as Trump makes new appointment "Though it took some time to improve the process, but eventually, Nigeria got it right. Even this year in September, with the advocacy of the former Minister of Tourism, Mrs. Lola Ade-John and the Minister of Interior Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, government dropped the Visa on Arrival fees by over 50 per cent. Nigerian Passport Gets New Ranking Legit.ng reported that a recent analysis revealed that the Nigerian passport is among the 20 least valuable in 2024. The Nigerian passport scores among the lowest 20 for 2024, a pattern that has continued for 10 years, according to data from the Henley Passport Index, which rates all passports in the world based on the number of destinations their holders can enter without a previous visa. International Air Transport Association (IATA) statistics and other open-source web data are the sources of information used by Henley and Partners to publish the historical data index. PAY ATTENTION: Сheck out news that is picked exactly for YOU ➡️ find the “Recommended for you” block on the home page and enjoy! Source: Legit.ng
World leaders mourn South Korean plane crash that kills 179
Numerology Horoscope 2025 for Root Number 7Special teams bungles dominate NFL, with Commanders and Cowboys leading the wayFor survivors of strokes, the device implanted in her chest could be a game changer in recovery.
A stroke changed a teacher’s life. How a new electrical device is helping her move
Multisectoral collaboration aids isolated Kapampangan communityNumerology Horoscope 2025 for Root Number 7Calcium is the most plentiful mineral in the human body, which makes it one of the most important nutrients for good health. Here’s everything you need to know about this essential chemical element, including which plant-based foods and ingredients to find it in. Read more: USDA Urged To Remove Dairy Category From 2025 Dietary Guidelines Why does the human body need calcium? “Calcium is an essential mineral vital in various bodily functions,” Karine Stephan, registered nutritional therapy and lifestyle medicine practitioner and founder of Happy Living Nutrition , tells Plant Based News ( PBN ). “It is a critical component of bones and teeth, providing strength and structure to the skeletal system.” Healthy adult humans contain between 1.2 and 1.4kg of calcium. Up to 99 percent of the body’s calcium is stored in the bones and teeth, but it also contributes to effective muscle movement and supports the heart, brain, nerves, blood pressure, clotting, and more. According to the Mayo Clinic , some research indicates that the combination of calcium and vitamin D together may also protect against diabetes, high blood pressure, and cancer. While calcium consumption is usually associated with dairy, it’s a myth that you need to consume milk or cheese to get it. Many plant-based foods are also rich in the essential mineral. Regardless of lifestyle, it’s important to ensure you’re consuming – and absorbing – enough calcium along with all other micro and macronutrients. It is thought that around half of the world’s population has “inadequate access to dietary calcium.” While populations in low and middle-income countries are at the greatest risk of severe deficiency, many individuals in high-income countries also regularly fail to meet the recommended daily allowance (RDA) for calcium, including 42 percent of people in the US. According to a pamphlet produced by the UK’s Whittington Health NHS Trust, calcium deficiency is unlike other nutrient shortages in that you may not know you’re lacking in something until you start experiencing serious negative health outcomes. For example, sometimes the first noticeable symptom is a fracture or the loss of a tooth. How much calcium per day is recommended? Calcium requirements vary greatly depending on a person’s age and sex, and according to the BBC , the RDA fluctuates throughout life along with other factors. Children aged 11 to 18 require from 800 to 1,000mg, while adults need slightly less at 700mg. However, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) suggests that most people should be taking in more calcium than this. It lists an RDA of 1,300mg for children aged 9 to 18, and 1000 to 1,200mg for adults aged 19 and 70, with the higher amount for those assigned female at birth and over 50. While being pregnant does not increase calcium needs, breastfeeding does require an additional 550mg on top of the typical adult RDA of 700mg, per the BBC. After menopause, people should have up to 1,200mg of calcium per day, according to Johns Hopkins Medicine . The NIH notes that overall absorption decreases as humans age, and that taking in too much calcium (over 2000mg per day) actually reduces absorption rates. Stephenson adds that excessive salt and caffeine consumption can negatively impact the body’s absorption of calcium. It’s also important to note that optimal calcium absorption is partially dependent on vitamin D, which helps to regulate the amount of calcium and phosphate in the body. According to NIH, inadequate vitamin D can lower calcium absorption from 40 percent to as low as 10 percent. When it comes to monitoring, Stephan notes that blood calcium levels may not always indicate a deficiency, but that markers like vitamin D can provide insight into bone health and calcium metabolism. If you are concerned about nutrient deficiencies for any reason, you should consult with your primary healthcare provider. Read more: The 9 Healthiest Fruits, According To Nutritionists 11 best plant-based calcium sources With the above in mind, here are some of the best plant-based sources of bioavailable calcium. Some of the foods below also contain vitamin D – such as dark leafy greens and okra – which support calcium absorption. Conversely, certain leafy greens are not included. Stephan explains that some plant-based foods contain compounds that inhibit calcium absorption, such as oxalates and phytates. “While leafy green vegetables like spinach and Swiss chard are sources of calcium, the calcium in these foods is less bioavailable due to their high oxalate content,” continues Stephan. (Note: spinach and chard are definitely still nutritional powerhouses, they just shouldn’t be your go-to for extra calcium.) “It’s possible to meet the recommended daily allowance (RDA) of calcium through a well-planned plant-based diet that includes a variety of foods like fortified non-dairy milk, tofu, almonds, white beans, and fortified cereals,” adds Stephan. Kale Dark green leafy vegetables generally contain a good amount of calcium, including collard, beet, mustard greens, and arugula, as well as cabbage, broccoli, chard, and other brassica. But kale , in particular, is one of the top three plant-based, bioaccessible calcium-rich foods of all time according to a study published in ScienceDirect . According to the ScienceDirect study, kale contains five times more bioaccessible calcium than a single serving of skimmed milk. It’s also rich in iron and vitamins C, K, E, A, and B6, along with magnesium, zinc, phosphorus, potassium, fiber, and antioxidants. “As mentioned, oxalates are naturally occurring compounds in some plant foods that can bind to calcium and decrease absorption. Instead, focus on kale, broccoli, bok choy, and collard greens, which are lower in oxalates but still provide good calcium,” adds Stephens. Finger millet Another one of the top three plant-based sources of calcium in the ScienceDirect study is finger millet, or ragi. Where other millets have a shiny outer husk, finger millet grows as a naked grain without this outer protection. Finger millet is notably and consistently high in bioavailable calcium along with other important micronutrients like zinc and magnesium. Finger millet is widely used across the Indian subcontinent for staple dishes such as paratha, dosas, and rotis, and it can be incorporated into pancakes and breads of all kinds. It also contains protein, fiber, and carbohydrates, but at 344mg per 100g, its most notable feature is its calcium content, which is higher than in all other cereals. Fortified bread Fortified bread was the third-best source of bioavailable calcium found by the ScienceDirect study, which the authors note indicates how impactful widespread calcium fortification could be in combating nutrient deficiencies worldwide. Breakfast cereals are another one of the most common fortified foods, and studies indicate that regular consumption can also help “enhance calcium absorption.” Pairing fortified bread or cereal with fortified milk can make breakfast a particularly calcium-rich first meal. Plant milks While most plant milks are fortified with vitamins and minerals, soy milk is generally thought to be the most nutritious. According to Medical News Today , calcium-fortified soy milk contains approximately the same amount of calcium per cup as traditional dairy milk. Many varieties are also fortified with vitamin D, and soy milk contains less saturated fat than dairy. Tofu The calcium content of tofu can vary quite widely depending on the firmness, setting method, and brand, but opting for calcium-set (meaning calcium chloride or sulfate has been added) and as firm as possible is a practical way of maximizing your intake. Calcium-set tofu can contain up to 350 mg of calcium per serving, while more traditional recipes contain just under 200mg. Cauldron-branded tofu, for example, contains up to 400mg per 100g serving, which is significantly higher than average. Stephens tells PBN that she typically opts for calcium-set tofu for this very reason. Tofu is also high in protein and notably contains all of the essential amino acids that the body needs along with manganese, copper, selenium, vitamin A, phosphorus, zinc, magnesium, and iron, along with beneficial polyunsaturated fat. Nuts and seeds Nuts and seeds are also a good source of calcium, though some varieties – such as almonds – have quite a high fat-to-calcium and protein ratio. That said, a 30g serving of almonds contains 13 grams of “good” unsaturated fats and just one of saturated. It also contains 80 mg of calcium, about 13 percent of the RDA, along with iron, magnesium, and fiber. Sunflower seeds, pistachios, sesame seeds, and chia seeds are all also fair sources of calcium. A 100g portion of chia contains around 631mg of calcium, around half of the RDA for adults. Meanwhile, 100g of sesame seeds contain up to 975mg. “It’s also worth noting that soaking or sprouting beans, nuts, and seeds can help reduce phytates and improve calcium bioavailability,” says Stephen. Beans According to the ScienceDirect study on plant-based calcium, black and white chickpeas, kidney beans, and peas can all be considered “moderate” sources, where 1.5 to 3 servings is equivalent to a single serving of skimmed milk. Medical News Today also highlights white beans, such as cannellini or lima, as being good sources of calcium. Edamame, or vegetable-type soybeans, contain up to 63 mg of calcium per 100g serving, while legumes like lentils contain around 19mg per 100g. “I make hummus with white beans and add them to soups and stews,” says Stephens. “White beans, especially those properly soaked, such as cannellini beans, are rich in calcium. I try to have them with dark mushrooms to enhance calcium absorption. Indeed, mushrooms like shiitake and portobello mushrooms are sources of vitamin D.” Okra Okra, or “lady’s fingers,” contains around 88mg of calcium per portion, along with iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, zinc, copper, selenium, and more. According to the Cleveland Clinic, a half-cup of cooked okra contains about six percent of the calcium RDA. Dried fruit Despite being super-sweet, dried fruits are still super-nutritious, with dates, apricots, and figs all containing calcium. Figs boast up to 162mg per portion, along with iron, magnesium, potassium, zinc, copper, manganese, and more. Stephan previously told PBN that she eats a fig or two every day. “ Figs are incredibly versatile,” explained Stephan at the time. “I enjoy them in salads or as a dessert. They are also high in fiber and bone-friendly minerals. Eating fruits in season is a great way to diversify our diet and ensure that we are consuming fruits that are at their freshest and most nutritious, while also reaping environmental benefits.” Sweet potatoes A single large sweet potato contains around 68mg of calcium as well as potassium and vitamins C and A. Sweet potatoes are also extremely versatile, meaning that they can be incorporated into countless recipes – both sweet and savory . Oranges While oranges are best known for their high vitamin C content, the fruit also contains up to 40mg of calcium per 100g, or 70mg per portion. That means eating a single orange gives you up to six percent of your RDA of calcium along with about 80mg of vitamin C. As with all of the foods listed above, the secret to meeting your quota for both macro and micronutrients is a varied and well-balanced diet. Combining calcium-rich foods like fortified milk, vegetables, cereal, seeds, and fruit into a single meal can seriously boost your intake. “Variety is key. I recommend including various calcium-rich plant foods in your diet to help meet daily calcium requirements and maximize absorption,” concludes Stephen. Read more: What Is Spirulina? The Protein-Packed Plant You Should Get To KnowJamaat not in favour of banning AL
Nigerians with disabilities face immense barriers to employment, from workplace inaccessibility to widespread discrimination. With hopes of inclusion fading, their aspirations are continually thwarted, and many are left in despair, while the fight for dignity and survival becomes an uphill battle. HENRY FALAIYE writes John, a 34-year-old physically challenged engineering graduate, has always been passionate about contributing to Nigeria’s infrastructural development. Yet, despite his qualifications and determination, he lamented that he faces persistent obstacles in the job market. John said, “I have sent out countless applications, but each time, the response is the same, especially when I get to the interview stage. “We have gone with another candidate.’ They don’t even give me a chance to prove myself,” he said, his voice tinged with frustration. According to John, who uses a wheelchair, employers’ reluctance to hire him stems not from a lack of skills but from societal attitudes towards people with disabilities. “I know that many of the tasks I am qualified for don’t require physical labour, but employers immediately doubt my abilities,” John told The PUNCH . “It feels like I am being judged based on my wheelchair, not my capability.” John added that the consistent rejections pushed him to consider self-employment as the only viable option. “It is demoralising. I have worked hard, but it seems like I will never be given a fair chance in the formal job market,” he added. John’s story reflects the grim reality for many Nigerians with disabilities. Johnson Chukwuma, a Higher National Diploma holder, resorted to washing cars at the NNPCL filling station along Okota Roundabout in Lagos to sustain himself and his family after struggling to secure employment due to poor eyesight. Chukwuma, an albino in his late 20s, lamented that despite graduating with second-class upper in Business Administration, he has faced repeated rejection from employers who cite his visual impairment as a limitation. While sharing his ordeal, Chukwuma explained, “I have applied to many companies, but they tell me I can’t perform well because I can’t see clearly. It is disheartening because I worked hard to get my degree and had high hopes for my future.” Despite the setbacks, Chukwuma refused to give in to despair. To make ends meet, he began washing cars, earning a modest income to support himself and his family. On an average day, he washes dozens of vehicles, earning just enough to get by. However, he stressed that the job does not reflect his qualifications or aspirations. “I just want to be given a chance to prove myself,” he said. “I know my limitations, but I also know my capabilities. I believe I can contribute meaningfully if only someone would take a chance on me.” Soliat Ogundele, a food seller at Isolo Market, shared her story of resilience and determination after a life-altering motor accident that claimed her right arm. Speaking with The PUNCH , Ogundele recounted the fateful day that changed her life forever. She was returning to Lagos when the accident occurred, leaving her with no choice but to undergo an amputation. “When the doctor said they had to cut off my hand completely, my world fell apart,” she lamented. “I became frustrated, filled with anger, and I lost my self-worth and esteem. I used my right hand to do almost everything, and suddenly, it was gone.” The journey to rebuild her life was fraught with challenges. Many companies refused to employ Ogundele due to her physical disability and after four years she’s yet to use her certificate to get a good job because of her disability. Learning to use her left hand for basic tasks became her first hurdle. However, amid her despair, her fiancé, who had proposed earlier that year, became her pillar of support. “He wiped away my tears, rented a shop for me in Isolo Market, and encouraged me to start selling foodstuffs. His love gave me hope.” Ogundele added, “I still struggle with self-confidence and often use long scarves to cover my amputated arm whenever I step out. “I am still trying to build my confidence back. It is not easy, but with the support of my family, I have been thriving.” For too long, PWDs in Nigeria have faced systemic barriers that hinder their full participation in society, particularly in the workforce. These barriers include widespread stigma, discrimination, lack of access to essential social services, and limited opportunities for education and skill development. In many parts of the world, persons with disabilities benefit from inclusive policies, accessible infrastructure, and anti-discrimination measures that foster equal opportunities. In contrast, PWDs in Nigeria face widespread discrimination and high unemployment due to societal biases and a lack of supportive structures, leaving them marginalised and unable to access essential services or opportunities for independence. Biases in employment practices Societal stereotypes often prevent employers from recognising the capabilities of PWDs. These biases limit job opportunities for them, even when they are equally or more qualified than their peers without disabilities. The Lead Human Resource Operations at Irede Foundation, Ms Oluwaseun Ayodeji-Cole, said, “Persons with disabilities in Nigeria face numerous barriers to employment, rooted in societal, institutional, and infrastructural challenges, contributing significantly to their plight. Employers frequently harbour biased perceptions about their productivity and competence, while social stigma and misconceptions foster a discriminatory hiring culture. “Both public and private sectors often lack awareness of the capabilities of disabled individuals and the advantages of inclusive hiring. Coupled with insufficient advocacy and support networks, this leaves many disabled job seekers struggling to navigate the employment landscape effectively.” Ayodeji-Cole mentioned that the foundation seeks to improve the employability of PWDs and create a more inclusive society where everyone can contribute and succeed. She said that due to the high level of unemployment among people with disabilities, the foundation has launched an employability programme aimed at enhancing employment opportunities for PWDs to equip them with leadership and employability skills for them to thrive in the workplace. “Policies that can be modified to ensure the inclusion of PWDs even in the hiring process. These things are small things that organisations can start to do pending when the big things are then implemented,” Ayodeji-Cole added. Different tales... A disability rights advocate and a US-based Nigerian musician, Tomi Owoeye, has witnessed both worlds of PWDs exclusion and inclusion in different societies. While in Nigeria, he was constantly denied job opportunities, but on relocation to the United States of America, he’s been able to access grants and social welfare facilities, which has greatly impacted his music career. He said, “Persons with disabilities in Nigeria face significant barriers to employment stemming from discrimination, inaccessible infrastructure, and inadequate skills training. Despite the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act 2018, implementation remains weak. Many employers still overlook the abilities of PWDs, focusing instead on their disabilities.” Owoeye said, “Despite not being able to walk from birth and using a wheelchair, I fought and made sure I became a graduate, but getting a job in Nigeria was quite difficult even though I was qualified for some positions. Most of the companies I went to for interviews didn’t offer me the positions due to my physical disability, and the one that did offer me a meagre salary compared to others. “When I had the opportunity to leave the shores of Nigeria for the United States, I followed and developed my passion for music especially playing the guitar. “Due to the enabling environment here and good policies that support PWDs, especially with grants and social welfare, amongst other things, I have been able to succeed in owning a music label, producing beats for other artists, and I have been going to concerts and earning from people streaming my music on different platforms. All of these benefits I didn’t have in Nigeria.” Also speaking with The PUNCH , Okiki, an individual with albinism residing in Ikate, said, “There is a significant educational barrier for persons with disabilities. Many of us don’t have access to quality education, and a major part of the problem is that many parents cannot afford to get their children admitted to school. Even when they do, continuing education becomes a struggle because the system itself is not inclusive enough to cater to our needs.” Social inclusion is the process of improving the terms on which individuals and groups take part in society – improving the ability, opportunity, and dignity of those disadvantaged on the basis of their identities. However, for many individuals living with disabilities in the country, finding employment is not just a matter of proving their skills or ability, but fighting against ingrained prejudices that undermine their potential. According to the Nigeria National Population Commission, over 19 million Nigerians, approximately 9.6 per of the population, live with some form of disability. The International Labour Organisation further emphasised that PWDs experience disproportionately high unemployment rates and significantly lower earnings. These challenges are exacerbated in developing countries like Nigeria, where systemic barriers, attitudinal biases, and poor implementation of disability-inclusive policies persist. Nigeria’s workforce stigma The ILO’s recent paper reveals a troubling global trend: persons with disabilities earn, on average, 12 per cent less per hour than their non-disabled peers, with the wage gap widening to 26 per cent in low- and lower-middle-income countries. In Nigeria, the situation is particularly dire. Unemployment among PWDs aged 15-24 is estimated at 77 per cent, compared to 49 per cent for their non-disabled counterparts. Among older age groups, the disparity remains significant, with PWDs facing unemployment rates nearly triple that of the general population. The ILO paper noted that differences in education, age and type of work cannot explain three-quarters of that. “In low and lower-middle-income countries, this disability wage gap is much larger, at 26 per cent, and almost half cannot be explained by socio-demographic differences,” the organisation mentioned. Related News Relief materials for PWDs Disability policy advocate seeks support for PWDs PWDs bemoan discrimination, seek inclusion in governance ILO highlighted the significant challenges faced by women with disabilities, who experience a notable gender pay gap compared to their male counterparts. In countries where gender-disaggregated data was available, the gender pay gap for women with disabilities was six per cent in developed nations and five per cent in developing countries. The ILO emphasised that globally, approximately 1.3 billion people, or nearly one in six, live with significant disabilities. However, only 30 per cent of individuals with disabilities are active in the labour market, leading to a low overall participation rate, with progress toward greater inclusion being slow. The ILO’s findings also pointed to the tendency of people with disabilities to pursue self-employment due to its flexibility, which can offer more control over working hours and reduce the risk of discrimination. According to a World Bank report, the unemployment rate for persons with disabilities in Nigeria is considerably higher than the general population. For instance, among individuals aged 15-24, unemployment for PWDs is approximately 77 per cent, compared to 49 per cent for those without disabilities. Among those aged 25-64, the rate is 61 per cent for PWDs compared to 21 for others. Despite educational qualifications, many PWDs struggle to secure jobs due to attitudinal and structural barriers in workplaces. The Executive Secretary of the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities, James Lalu, disclosed that there are currently 35.1 million persons living with disabilities in Nigeria. He emphasised the urgent need for inclusivity, stating, “The challenges faced by persons with disabilities are vast, from limited access to education and healthcare to employment discrimination. It is crucial that the government and society as a whole take steps to create an environment that accommodates and empowers this significant segment of the population.” Although there is no precise estimate of the total number of people with disabilities in Nigeria, data from the 2018 Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey provides some insight. The survey found that seven per cent of individuals aged five and older, and nine per cent of those aged 60 or above, experience difficulties in at least one functional area, such as seeing, hearing, communication, cognition, walking, or self-care. Moreover, one per cent of the population faces significant challenges, with either severe difficulty or an inability to function in one or more of these domains. In January 2019, Nigeria ratified the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act 2018, marking a significant step toward protecting the rights of individuals with disabilities. However, the implementation of this legislation has largely fallen short. In addition to the national law, nine states have introduced their disability laws, but the effectiveness and enforcement of these regulations vary across the country. Attitudinal barriers are among the most significant obstacles. Employers often harbour misconceptions about the productivity and adaptability of disabled individuals. Consequently, many workplaces fail to provide essential accommodations, such as accessible restrooms, ramps, or assistive technologies. These deficiencies not only limit opportunities for PWDs but also perpetuate a cycle of exclusion and poverty. Legislative framework Nigeria’s Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, enacted in 2019, aims to safeguard the rights of PWDs. The law mandates accessibility in public spaces and prohibits discrimination in employment. However, implementation remains inconsistent, and enforcement mechanisms are weak. Additionally, only nine states have enacted their disability laws, leading to uneven progress across the country. Disability Inclusion Consultant, Dr Adebukola Adebayo, emphasised that the Nigerian government could significantly reduce unemployment among persons with disabilities by establishing clear standards, policies, and guidelines for accessibility. “There are approximately 30 million people with disabilities in Nigeria, with the World Bank noting that 18 million are of working age. However, only about 0.3 per cent of this working-age population is gainfully employed,” she said. She added that even those who are employed often face significant barriers in their workplaces, from physical inaccessibility to workplace discrimination. The Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, signed into law in 2019, was a watershed moment for disability rights in Nigeria. The Act seeks to eradicate employment discrimination, ensure access to public buildings within five years, promote inclusive education, and secure employment opportunities by reserving a five per cent employment quota for PWDs in public organisations. It also established the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities to combat discrimination and promote inclusion. However, five years after its enactment, the Act’s impact has been minimal for Nigeria’s estimated 29 million PWDs. An official noted that the Act’s provision for a five-year grace period for public buildings to become accessible for PWDs is set to take effect in January 2024. Yet, compliance remains low, even in Lagos State, which introduced its own Special People’s Law in 2011, years before the federal legislation. Economic cost Excluding PWDs from the workforce not only undermines social equity but also imposes significant economic costs. According to the World Bank, PWDs in Nigeria are more likely to experience extreme poverty and multidimensional deprivation. With only 0.3 per cent of Nigeria’s 18 million working-age PWDs gainfully employed, the country is missing out on a vast pool of untapped talent and innovation. Also, the chairperson of the Nigeria Business Disability Network, Mrs Omobolanle Victor-Laniyan, said, “Businesses have a crucial role in bridging these gaps, which is why we needed to come together and form networks to explore how we can collaborate to make workplaces more accessible for persons with disabilities. “Our goal is to ensure an inclusive and sustainable approach, where PWDs are seen as valuable contributors to the workforce. PWDs are highly innovative, and to ensure we don’t miss out on their skills and talents, we established the NBDN.” “We aim to foster a culture of inclusivity that not only benefits PWDs but also enhances the overall productivity and diversity of organisations,” she explained. Dimensions of disabilities Women with disabilities face compounded challenges, as the ILO’s research shows. In developing countries, women with disabilities earn five per cent less than their male counterparts. These disparities are driven by entrenched gender norms, limited access to education, and heightened vulnerability to discrimination. The intersection of gender and disability creates a unique set of barriers that demand targeted interventions. For many PWDs, self-employment offers a pathway to economic independence. The ILO notes that disabled individuals are more likely to pursue self-employment due to the flexibility it provides. However, this path is fraught with challenges, including limited access to capital, training, and markets. Government initiatives that promote entrepreneurship among PWDs, coupled with investments in locally manufactured assistive devices, could help address these gaps. Call to action As Nigeria grapples with high unemployment rates and widening inequality, the inclusion of persons with disabilities in the workforce must become a national priority. This requires concerted efforts from the government, private sector, and civil society to dismantle the pervasive barriers that prevent PWDs from realising their potential. By fostering an inclusive and equitable culture, Nigeria can tap into the untapped talent of millions of disabled citizens, contributing to a more just society and a prosperous economy. Despite the passage of the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act in January 2019, which was a landmark move toward addressing the plight of PWDs, the implementation of the law remains inconsistent. Across the country, PWDs continue to encounter substantial obstacles in accessing employment, with employers often neglecting the provisions of the law due to a lack of awareness or commitment to inclusive hiring practices. Systemic barriers Stigma and societal discrimination are deeply entrenched in Nigerian culture, often manifesting in the marginalisation of PWDs in various spheres of life. These attitudes perpetuate barriers to education, employment, healthcare, and social inclusion. According to the World Health Organisation, in 2018, a report titled Disability Inclusion in Nigeria: A Rapid Assessment highlighted that about 29 million of the 195 million people who comprise Nigeria’s national population were living with a disability. Also, data from the 2018 Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey revealed that an estimated 7 per cent of household members above the age of five (as well as 9 per cent of those 60 or older) have some level of difficulty in at least one functional domain—seeing, hearing, communication, cognition, walking, or self-care—and 1 per cent either have a lot of difficulty or cannot function at all in at least one domain. However, these estimated rates, while significant, are probably even higher because currently available data likely underestimate the prevalence. This rapid social assessment was undertaken to document the current socioeconomic status of persons with disabilities in Nigeria. Findings indicated that persons with disabilities lack access to basic services and that attitudinal barriers represent a major impediment to their socioeconomic inclusion. Inclusive policies are either non-existent, weak or inadequately implemented. There is an urgent need to improve the current socioeconomic situation of persons with disabilities in Nigeria. Institutions are shaped by the individuals who run them, and the attitudes of these individuals influence the environment and the institutions themselves. When a community holds negative attitudes toward a particular vulnerable group, it significantly hinders the group’s ability to reach its full potential. Efforts toward empowerment Fatima Usman, Programme Coordinator for an NGO focused on disability empowerment, highlighted the importance of skill acquisition tailored to the needs of PWDs. She stressed the role of collaborations between the private sector, NGOs, and educational institutions in providing market-relevant training, particularly in technology and entrepreneurship. “Digital technology offers a unique opportunity for inclusion,” she noted. “Remote work models can help PWDs overcome mobility barriers, enabling them to work effectively from home. Creating disability-friendly workplaces with ramps, assistive devices, and flexible work policies is equally important.” Usman also called for awareness campaigns to challenge societal stereotypes. “Inclusion is not charity; it is about recognising the value PWDs bring to the workforce,” she said. “With concerted efforts, PWDs in Nigeria can achieve equitable access to employment and contribute meaningfully to the country’s development.” Recommendations for inclusive d Looking ahead The inclusion of PWDs is essential to achieving Nigeria’s national development goals. Former President Muhammadu Buhari’s ambition of lifting 100 million Nigerians out of poverty by 2029 and fostering inclusive economic growth will be challenging without addressing the socioeconomic barriers faced by PWDs. Creating an enabling environment for PWDs to thrive requires collaborative efforts from government officials, policymakers, NGOs, and civil society organisations. A woman with a physical disability from Oyo state, Mrs. Adeojo, said, “Persons with disabilities should not relax and think, ‘We now have a law, so everything we need will fall into place.’ No, we must continue to work and advocate for implementation.” Her statement underscored the importance of persistent advocacy and collective action to ensure that PWDs in Nigeria can achieve equal opportunities and lead fulfilling lives.
India's former prime minister Manmohan Singh, architect of economic reforms, dies at 92PITTSBURGH (AP) — Cam Heyward has been on good teams before. Ones that have captured divisions. Ones that have won playoff games, though admittedly not in a while. The longtime Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle, now well into his dotage in his 14th season, can't quite remember having a group like the one that he plays on now. “We have a complete team,” Heyward said. A team that began the season riddled with question marks now finds itself steamrolling toward Christmas with everything on the table. Russell Wilson threw for 158 yards and two touchdowns, Heyward recorded two sacks and the Steelers beat the Cleveland Browns 27-14 on Sunday even with leading receiver George Pickens watching from the sideline while missing the first game of his career due to a groin injury. While it took Wilson and the rest of the offense time to get going with the productive if volatile Pickens out of the mix, Wilson found his footing in the second half by connecting on touchdown passes to Pat Freiermuth and Van Jefferson as the Steelers (10-3) moved two games ahead of Baltimore for the AFC North lead with four weeks to go. Two weeks after a messy pratfall in the snow, Pittsburgh avoided being swept by the Browns for the first time since 1988 by taking advantage of the countless opportunities mistake-prone Cleveland (3-10) provided. Jameis Winston threw two interceptions, Dustin Hopkins missed two makeable field goals when the outcome was still in doubt and a series of ill-time flags added up to the Browns reaching double-digit losses for the 18th time since the franchise returned in 1999. “I don’t believe the Pittsburgh Steelers beat the Cleveland Browns,” Winston said. “I believe the Cleveland Browns beat the Cleveland Browns.” While Winston avoided the pick-6s that have dogged him throughout his career — including last week in Denver — but did little after hitting Jerry Jeudy for a 35-yard touchdown in the first quarter that gave the Browns an early lead. Winston finished 24 of 41 for 211 yards with two touchdowns and two interceptions. Nick Chubb ran for 48 yards in his return to Pittsburgh after a devastating knee injury on the same field 15 months ago forced him to miss more than a year. Yet the Steelers kept Myles Garrett relatively in check after the defensive star racked up three sacks in Cleveland's snowy upset on Nov. 21 , and Pittsburgh's defense provided the spark that brought the offense to life. The surge began when Winston's screen pass intended for Chubb landed in the hands of 6-foot-4, 309-pound Steelers defensive tackle Keeanu Benton, who lugged his first career interception 11 yards. Najee Harris bulled over from 1 yard out five plays later to give the Steelers a lead they wouldn't relinquish. “That's what good teams do this time of year,” Pittsburgh coach Mike Tomlin said. “Somebody makes a play, the other side of the ball backs it up. That's what we're trying to do.” Cleveland had chances to keep the Steelers within sight, but Hopkins saw a 38-yard field goal at breezy Acrisure Stadium late in the first half sail wide left, then had a 43-yarder drift wide right early in the third quarter. “I need to find a good swing,” said Hopkins, who has an NFL-high nine misses. “The swing has been tough to find this year.” The Steelers scored on the ensuing possession when Wilson executed a perfect run-pass option by faking the ball to Jaylen Warren, rolling right and finding Jefferson wide-open in the end zone from 10 yards out to make it 20-7. Pittsburgh's Elandon Roberts stuffed Jerome Ford for a 5-yard loss on fourth down to end Cleveland's next possession, and Wilson connected with Freiermuth down the seam. The tight end stumbled into the newly painted yellow end zone to send the Browns back to Cleveland with a loss, just like they have during every regular season visit since 2004. It also sets the stage for a daunting finishing stretch for the Steelers, who face Philadelphia, Baltimore and Kansas City over the next three weeks, with two of the games coming on short rest. While Pittsburgh has quieted much of the noise that surrounded the team after a massive offensive overhaul in the offseason — led by the acquisition of Wilson — the Steelers understand the real test is still to come. “Why not test us before the playoffs, get a feel?” Freiermuth said. “They're all playoff teams we're playing, so it'll be great.” Browns: CB Mike Ford Jr. was placed in the concussion protocol in the first quarter. Steelers: DT Larry Ogunjobi (groin) left in the first half and did not return. ... DB Donte Jackson (back) exited in the third quarter. Browns: Host Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs next Sunday. Steelers: Travel to cross-state rival Philadelphia next Sunday. AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/NFL
INDIANAPOLIS – It’s been four weeks since Indianapolis Colts head coach Shane Steichen announced the postseason was the franchise’s top priority and veteran Joe Flacco would take over as the starting quarterback. The Colts (5-7) have won just a single game since, and 22-year-old Anthony Richardson has been reinstated as the starter. Indianapolis has lost plenty of ground in the playoff chase over the last month, but it’s still got a chance to make a run. The Colts enter the week in ninth place in the AFC, two games behind the Denver Broncos (7-5) for the seventh and final postseason berth. That’s not great math for Indianapolis, and there is little to no margin for error, but with the teeth of the schedule in the rearview mirror, there is hope. The Colts play just one team with a winning record over their final five games. That’s a Dec. 15 date against the Broncos that could ultimately seal the team’s playoff fate. The stretch run begins Sunday on the road against the New England Patriots (3-9) with the bye week to follow. The final three games are at home against the Tennessee Titans (3-8), at the New York Giants (2-9) and at home against the Jacksonville Jaguars (2-9). “I think, right now, where we’re at in the season, with everything set ahead of us, still being in that picture, one game on the road against New England going into the bye, we’ve got a chance to catch our breath and regroup for the last, final run,” linebacker Zaire Franklin said. “I think we’re in a special, unique position to where – why not go on a run? Why not us? I’ve done it before. “To be honest with you, I hate that I’m always in this position, but I’ve been there before, and I think the reality of the situation is that it just takes one. It just takes one play. It just takes one game. It just takes one to get the ball rolling, to get this momentum shifted, to get that energy back and get it rolling and get into the dance. Because I think, at the end of the day, as long as you get into the dance, that’s all that matters.” Franklin was a rookie in 2018 when Indianapolis went 10-1 down the stretch to overcome a 1-5 start and sneak into the postseason with the final berth. The 2021 Colts went 6-1 in November and December to get to 9-6 and position themselves for a playoff spot before losing their final two games in January. And Indianapolis won four straight to end November and begin December last year, enabling itself to force a winner-takes-all battle against the Houston Texans in the regular-season finale. The Colts went 1-3 in November this year, but they have a chance to turn things around in the final full month of the regular season. “Obviously, these last five games will be big,” Steichen said. “Right now we’ve got to take it one day at a time, one meeting at a time, one practice at a time, one game at a time to get to where we want to be at the end of the year. But we know this is a huge week for us coming up before the bye. So the fundamentals, the details, the attention to details, are going to be huge going into this week and then coming back after the bye. Get some guys back hopefully, be ready to roll for that four-game stretch.” If Indianapolis’ fortunes are to turn around again, it will need to begin with the offense. The Colts rank 21st in the 32-team NFL with an average of 20.2 points per game and are 17th in rushing offense and 24th in the passing game. Center Tanor Bortolini (concussion) and wide receiver Josh Downs (shoulder) are among the players in danger of missing the trip to New England, increasing the degree of difficulty for a struggling unit. But improvement in situational details could go a long way toward fixing what fails the offense. Indianapolis ranks 23rd with a 36% conversion rate on third down, and it’s 24th with a 52.8% touchdown rate in the red zone. Those numbers are the keys to finishing drives and putting more points on the scoreboard. “We just need to take advantage of our scoring opportunities, and we need to come away with seven (points) instead of three because we got down there – we just couldn't finish,” wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr. said, referring specifically to last week’s 24-6 loss against the Detroit Lions in which the Colts twice failed to reach the end zone from inside the visitors’ 20-yard line. “If we start putting up sevens instead of threes, then you don't know what happens, right? The score is a lot closer and football is football and momentum is king, and who knows?”Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall Despite the geopolitical noise created by threats of invasion, Taiwan remains as an attractive tourist destination for Filipinos. And that charm comes from Taiwan’s overall efforts to reshape its tourism industry by luring more holiday-makers from Southeast Asia, who are now coming to the island in numbers close to the years before pandemic lockdowns kept people in their homes. Latest data from the Taiwan Tourism Administration show that total international arrivals in Taiwan had grown by 27.14 percent year-on-year in the first nine months of 2024 to 5.5 million. The figure, however, is still below the 8.8 million arrivals recorded during the same period in 2019, or before the pandemic. But zooming in, travelers from Southeast Asia had jumped by 10.5 percent in the January to September period to 1.68 million, already close to pre-COVID-19 level. Notably, Filipinos cornered the largest share of Southeast Asian visitors to the island after clocking in a 38.77-percent growth to 338,386—almost hitting the number recorded in the same nine-month period in 2019. “Taiwan is surrounded by mountains and seas, with rich and diverse natural landscapes. With the beautiful scenery, tourists can always find their inner peace by immersing themselves with the tranquility of Taiwan,” Cindy Chen, director of the Tourism Administration, tells the Inquirer in an interview during a familiarization tour on the island’s capital of Taipei. “With such reasons, tourists are eager to revisit Taiwan and discover its charm through different aspects,” Chen adds. Taipei 101 skyscraper This, in turn, is helping Taiwan’s economy that—albeit technology-focused and export-oriented—has a vibrant tourism sector that generates jobs for many people working in places like the famous night markets. ”Whether in big cities or small towns, from street food to fine dining, there are plenty of choices to satisfy different needs,” Chen says. As it is, Southeast Asian travelers are picking up the slack from the still weak number of Chinese visitors, who are now being outnumbered by travelers from the Philippines alone. Official data show that unlike in the past years when mainland China was the top source of international arrivals to Taiwan, the share of Chinese visitors to total foreign travelers to the island has shrunk to just around 5 percent. The Tourism Administration reports that only 293,235 Chinese from the mainland visited the island in the first nine months of 2024, coinciding with rising tensions in the Taiwan Strait. In early June, Taipei visitors can witness the annual Dragon Boat Festival. It thus makes perfect sense that Taiwan now sees the Philippines as an important market. Filipinos currently enjoy visa-free entry to Taiwan for up to 14 days. At the same time, Taiwan is the closest neighbor of the Philippines in the north, with major airlines offering flights between the two destinations. And Filipinos are making the most out of their visits. According to the latest data from the Tourism Administration, Filipinos stayed for an average of 6.31 nights in Taiwan—mostly for leisure—during the January to September period, albeit the shortest among Southeast Asian visitors. Night markets such as the most famous one in Shilin District And if you are planning a trip to Taiwan, Chen says holidaymakers from the Philippines may time their visit during the Dragon Boat Festival, which is generally held in early June around the summer solstice according to the Chinese lunar calendar. This year, the Taipei International Dragon Boat Championships held last June 8 to 10 at the picturesque Dajia Riverside Park in Zhongshan District in Taipei was a spectacular showcase of modern cityscape, riverside development and rich tradition that attracted skilled teams of rowers from Taiwan and around the globe. Subscribe to our daily newsletter By providing an email address. I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy . “Plenty of races will be organized from northern to southern Taiwan. There are more customs for tourists to experience during the holiday,” Chen says.
Los Angeles Chargers (7-4) at Atlanta (6-5) Sunday, 1 p.m. EST, CBS BetMGM NFL Odds: Chargers by 1 1/2 Series record: Falcons lead 8-4. Against the spread: Chargers 7-3-1, Falcons 5-6. Last meeting: Chargers beat Falcons 20-17 on Nov. 6, 2022, in Atlanta. Last week: Ravens beat Chargers, 30-23; Falcons had bye week following 38-6 loss at Denver on Nov. 17. Chargers offense: overall (21), rush (13), pass (20), scoring (18). Chargers defense: overall (13), rush (10), pass (10), scoring (13). Falcons offense: overall (8), rush (14), pass (5), scoring (16). Falcons defense: overall (25), rush (19), pass (26), scoring (26). Turnover differential: Chargers plus-8, Falcons minus-3. RB Gus Edwards will move up as the lead back for Los Angeles after J.K Dobbins (knee) was placed on injured reserve on Saturday. Edwards was activated from IR earlier this month following an ankle injury and had nine carries for 11 yards with a touchdown in Monday night's 30-23 loss to Baltimore. WR Drake London has 61 catches, leaving him four away from becoming the first player in team history to have at least 65 receptions in each of his first three seasons. London has 710 receiving yards, leaving him 140 away from becoming the first player in team history with at least 850 in each of his first three seasons. Falcons RB Bijan Robinson vs. Chargers' run defense. Robinson was shut down by Denver, gaining only 35 yards on 12 carries, and the Atlanta offense couldn't recover. The Chargers rank 10th in the league against the run, so it will be a challenge for the Falcons to find a way to establish a ground game with Robinson and Tyler Allgeier. A solid running attack would create an opportunity for offensive coordinator Zac Robinson to establish the play-action passes for quarterback Kirk Cousins. Besides Dobbins, the Chargers also placed S Alohi Gilman (hamstring) on injured reserve. CB Cam Hart (ankle) and LB Denzel Perryman (groin) also have been ruled out. ... The Falcons needed the bye to give a long list of injured players an opportunity to heal. WR WR KhaDarel Hodge (neck) did not practice on Wednesday. WR Darnell Mooney (Achilles), CB Kevin King (concussion), DL Zach Harrison (knee, Achilles) and WR Casey Washington (concussion) were hurt in the 38-6 loss at Denver on Nov. 17 and were limited on Wednesday. CB Mike Hughes (neck), nickel back Dee Alford (hamstring), ILB Troy Andersen (knee), TE Charlie Woerner (concussion) and ILB JD Bertrand (concussion) also were limited on Wednesday after not playing against Denver. C Drew Dalman (ankle) could return. The Chargers have won the past three games in the series following six consecutive wins by the Falcons from 1991-2012. Los Angeles took a 33-30 overtime win in Atlanta in 2016 before the Chargers added 20-17 wins at home in 2020 and in Atlanta in 2022. The Falcons won the first meeting between the teams, 41-0 in San Diego in 1973. Each team has built its record on success against the soft NFC South. Atlanta is 4-1 against division rivals. Los Angeles is 2-0 against the NFC South this season. The Chargers have a four-game winning streak against the division. ... Atlanta is 0-2 against AFC West teams, following a 22-17 loss to Kansas City and the lopsided loss at Denver. The Falcons will complete their tour of the AFC West with a game at the Las Vegas Raiders on Dec. 16. ... The Falcons are the league's only first-place team with a negative points differential. Atlanta has been outscored 274-244. The loss of Dobbins, who has rushed for eight touchdowns, could put more pressure on QB Justin Hebert and the passing game. Herbert's favorite option has been WR Ladd McConkey, who has four TD receptions among his 49 catches for 698 yards. McConkey, the former University of Georgia standout who was drafted in the second round, could enjoy a productive return to the state against a Falcons defense that ranks only 26th against the pass. AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/nfl