A key figure in a trucker protest that jammed Canada's capital and sparked a global movement against Covid mandates was found guilty Friday for his role in the blockade. The self-styled "Freedom Convoy" of big rig drivers and protesters rolled into Ottawa in early 2022 from across Canada to express anger at government protocols imposed to contain Covid-19. After three weeks of turmoil, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau invoked rarely used emergency powers to dislodge the protesters. Pat King was among hundreds of people arrested, and the first of the protest leaders to be convicted. Two other organizers, Tamara Lich and Chris Barber faced a separate criminal trial but those verdicts are not expected until 2025. King faces up to 10 years in prison after being convicted on five charges, including mischief, counselling others to commit mischief and disobeying a court order. Acquitted of more serious charges, he smiled at a packed courtroom of supporters as the judge read the verdict. "Mr King was not merely engaging in political speech," Justice Charles Hackland said. "Rather, he was inciting the protesters to continue their ongoing blockade of downtown Ottawa." King led hundreds of big rigs and thousands of protestors to Ottawa, bringing the capital to a standstill for more than three weeks. Residents and business owners complained of incessant honking and harassment. As the demonstrators' demands expanded to a broader anti-establishment agenda, solidarity rallies popped up at Canada-US trade corridors and various places abroad. Most of the evidence at trial consisted of videos King posted on social media in which he urged his nearly 300,000 followers to rail against government overreach. "Hold the line," he said in video posts, appearing also to delight in the gridlock and misery of locals: "Pretty hilarious that people haven't been able to sleep for 10 days." Trudeau faced strong criticisms from civil liberties groups and the opposition Conservatives for invoking the Emergencies Act to dislodge the protestors. But a commission of inquiry ruled it had been "appropriate," calling it "a drastic move, but... not a dictatorial one." amc/bs/bfmB.C. Premier David Eby vows to seek out new export opportunities in wake of Trump tariff planNEW YORK , Dec. 2, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Report with market evolution powered by AI - The global arcade gaming market size is estimated to grow by USD 2.22 billion from 2024-2028, according to Technavio. The market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 2.18% during the forecast period. Increasing physical activities in arcade gaming is driving market growth, with a trend towards rising integration of vr in arcade games. However, high cost of arcade gaming machines poses a challenge. Key market players include Bandai Namco Holdings Inc., Bay Tek Entertainment Inc., Capcom Co. Ltd., Chicago Gaming Co., CXC Simulations, D BOX Technologies Inc., Eleetus LLC, Helix Leisure USA Inc., Incredible Technologies Inc., Innovative Concepts in Entertainment Inc., International Games System Co. Ltd., Neofuns Amusement Equipment Co. Ltd., Nintendo Co. Ltd., PrimeTime Amusements, Sega Sammy Holdings Inc., Square Enix Holdings Co. Ltd., UNIS Technology Ltd., Valley Dynamo Inc., Vesaro Ltd., and Bowlero Corp.. Key insights into market evolution with AI-powered analysis. Explore trends, segmentation, and growth drivers- View Free Sample PDF Arcade Gaming Market Scope Report Coverage Details Base year 2023 Historic period 2018 - 2022 Forecast period 2024-2028 Growth momentum & CAGR Accelerate at a CAGR of 2.18% Market growth 2024-2028 USD 2.22 billion Market structure Fragmented YoY growth 2022-2023 (%) 1.86 Regional analysis APAC, North America, Europe, Middle East and Africa, and South America Performing market contribution APAC at 50% Key countries US, China, Japan, India, and Germany Key companies profiled Bandai Namco Holdings Inc., Bay Tek Entertainment Inc., Capcom Co. Ltd., Chicago Gaming Co., CXC Simulations, D BOX Technologies Inc., Eleetus LLC, Helix Leisure USA Inc., Incredible Technologies Inc., Innovative Concepts in Entertainment Inc., International Games System Co. Ltd., Neofuns Amusement Equipment Co. Ltd., Nintendo Co. Ltd., PrimeTime Amusements, Sega Sammy Holdings Inc., Square Enix Holdings Co. Ltd., UNIS Technology Ltd., Valley Dynamo Inc., Vesaro Ltd., and Bowlero Corp. Market Driver Virtual Reality (VR) is gaining popularity as a mainstream gaming platform in the entertainment industry. VR solutions aim to create a realistic virtual environment, immersing users in a lifelike experience. In recent years, VR-based arcade games have emerged, with notable releases such as the VR 360 dinosaur attack car arcade game 3D shooter and Sega's VR Agent. These innovative games offer unique experiences, combining VR headsets with gun controllers for action-packed gameplay. In 2021, Springboard VR, a leading VR venue management software and content provider, was acquired by Vertigo Games. Vertigo offers a growing portfolio of VR games and location-based entertainment (LBE), including arcade games. This strategic alliance will increase the introduction of VR-based arcade games in the future. The Arcade Expo International (AEI) convention in Las Vegas in March 2022 focused on VR technology in arcades and other LBE games. Discussions covered successful VR arcade chains, operational issues to boost sales and profits, and enhancing user experiences. Such factors will drive the growth of the global arcade gaming market during the forecast period. Arcade gaming is experiencing a resurgence in various public spaces, including malls and restaurants. Amusement arcades, filled with arcade games, video games, simulation games, mechanical games, and electrical display machines, are once again becoming popular hangouts. The genres of racing, shooting, sports, action, and even carnival games are attracting a wide range of consumers. This trend is not limited to residential areas; commercial gaming hubs are also seeing in demand. Arcade gaming offers physical activity and potential health benefits, making it an attractive alternative to sedentary online gambling or remote betting on football wagers or horse racing. Meanwhile, the technology behind these machines continues to evolve, with new levels, scoring features, and consumer-friendly designs. Classic games like pinball machines, slot machines, and coin machine games remain popular, while newer genres like Anime and lifestyle games are gaining traction. Arcade gaming provides a unique blend of entertainment, social interaction, and technology that appeals to a diverse audience. Whether you're looking for a fun day out at an amusement park or a quick break at a game parlor, arcade gaming has something for everyone. Request Sample of our comprehensive report now to stay ahead in the AI-driven market evolution! Market Challenges The global arcade gaming market faces a significant challenge due to the high cost of arcade gaming machines. These specialized machines, featuring advanced hardware, interfaces, and captivating gameplay experiences, necessitate substantial investment from both operators and developers. The development and purchase of modern arcade gaming machines, including those with cutting-edge technologies like VR and AR, involve considerable research and development (R&D) expenses. Additionally, the demand for machines with high-definition displays, motion-sensing controllers, and sophisticated audio-visual components further increases the cost. Ongoing maintenance expenses, averaging around USD4,500 per year, add to the financial burden for operators. With prices ranging from USD5,000 to USD10,000 and sometimes exceeding USD15,000 , the high cost of arcade gaming machines may negatively impact market growth, limiting consumer accessibility and potentially hindering the expansion of the global arcade gaming market. The arcade gaming market faces various challenges in both residential and commercial sectors. Residential consumers prefer the convenience of online gaming, while commercial gaming hubs compete with physical activity and health benefits. The online gambling sector, including remote betting on football wagers and horse racing, poses a significant challenge. The lifestyle change towards technology and virtual reality games, along with the popularity of online streaming and e-sports, impacts the market. However, arcade gaming still thrives with carnival games, merchandiser games, pinball machines, slot machines, and coin machine games in public places like game parlors. The technology behind these machines continues to evolve, offering consumers new levels and scoring features. Toys, amusement parks, anime, and lifestyle trends also contribute to the market's popularity. Despite the competition, affordability remains a significant factor, making arcade gaming an enduring pastime. Discover how AI is revolutionizing market trends- Get your access now! Segment Overview This arcade gaming market report extensively covers market segmentation by End-user 1.1 Gaming hubs 1.2 Semi-commercial 1.3 Residential Genre 2.1 Racing 2.2 Shooting 2.3 Sports 2.4 Action Type 3.1 Video games 3.2 Simulation games 3.3 Mechanical games Geography 4.1 APAC 4.2 North America 4.3 Europe 4.4 Middle East and Africa 4.5 South America 1.1 Gaming hubs- The arcade gaming market's largest segment in 2023 and throughout the forecast period is gaming hubs. These establishments use expensive arcade gaming equipment, making them the only accessible option for consumers. Despite the market's maturity, advanced technologies like gaming simulators are still growing, attracting businesses. Vendors provide simulation-based games, primarily for teenagers and Millennials, such as CXC Simulations' Motion Pro II racing simulator. These products are targeted at racing arcade centers and clubs, increasing demand and driving growth in the gaming hub segment. Download a Sample of our comprehensive report today to discover how AI-driven innovations are reshaping competitive dynamics Research Analysis Arcade gaming refers to the use of electronic games in public spaces, such as malls, restaurants, and amusement arcades. These venues offer a wide range of arcade games, including video games, simulation games, mechanical games, and electromechanical games. Arcade games come in various genres, including racing, shooting, sports, action, and more. They are often found in commercial areas, such as gaming hubs, game parlors, and malls, and can be played for a fee using coins or tokens. The consumer enjoys the thrill of competing against others or the machine itself, with the added excitement of scoring points and advancing through levels. Electrical displays and mechanical movements add to the experience of arcade gaming. Coin machine games, slot machines, and other gambling games are also popular in arcades. Market Research Overview Arcade gaming refers to the use of electronic games in public spaces such as malls, restaurants, and amusement arcades. Arcade games encompass various genres including simulation, racing, shooting, sports, action, and mechanical games. These games are often housed in electrical display cabinets and can be found in both residential and commercial settings. Gaming hubs provide a physical activity outlet with potential health benefits, while also catering to the online gambling sector through remote betting on football wagers, horse racing, and other events. The lifestyle change brought about by arcade gaming extends to carnival games, merchandiser games, and pinball machines, as well as coin machine games and slot machines. With the advancement of machines technology, consumers can now enjoy levels and scoring features in arcade parlors. The popularity of arcade gaming is driven by affordability, accessibility, and the integration of virtual reality and online streaming. Consumer competitions, e-sports, and internet penetration continue to fuel the growth of this dynamic industry. Table of Contents: 1 Executive Summary 2 Market Landscape 3 Market Sizing 4 Historic Market Size 5 Five Forces Analysis 6 Market Segmentation End-user Gaming Hubs Semi-commercial Residential Genre Racing Shooting Sports Action Type Video Games Simulation Games Mechanical Games Geography APAC North America Europe Middle East And Africa South America 7 Customer Landscape 8 Geographic Landscape 9 Drivers, Challenges, and Trends 10 Company Landscape 11 Company Analysis 12 Appendix About Technavio Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focuses on emerging market trends and provides actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions. With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios. Contacts Technavio Research Jesse Maida Media & Marketing Executive US: +1 844 364 1100 UK: +44 203 893 3200 Email: media@technavio.com Website: www.technavio.com/ View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/arcade-gaming-market-to-grow-by-usd-2-22-billion-2024-2028-driven-by-increased-physical-activities-with-ai-redefining-the-market-landscape---technavio-302318971.html SOURCE Technavio © 2024 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.
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Runner's World: Top RBs take flight when Ravens entertain EaglesOTTAWA — Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said dealing with incoming president Donald Trump and his thundering on trade will be "a little more challenging" than the last time he was in the White House. Speaking at an event put on by the Halifax Chamber of Commerce, Trudeau said that's because Trump's team is coming in with a much clearer set of ideas of what they want to do right away than after his first election win in 2016. Even still, Trudeau said the answer is not to panic and said Canada can rally together to address the tough scenario the nation will face following Trump's inauguration in January. Trump has threatened 25 per cent tariffs against Canada and Mexico, if the two nations do not beef up their borders to his satisfaction. On the weekend, Trump appeared in an interview with NBC's "Meet the Press," where the president-elect said he can't guarantee the tariffs won't raise prices for U.S. consumers but that eventually tariffs will "make us rich." "All I want to do is I want to have a level, fast, but fair playing field," he said. Trudeau warned that steep tariffs could be "devastating for the Canadian economy" and cause "just horrific losses in all of our communities," and that Trump's approach is to introduce "a bit of chaos" to destabilize his negotiating partners. But he also said that Canada exports a range of goods to the U.S., from steel and aluminum to crude oil and agricultural commodities, all of which would get more expensive and mean real hardship for Americans at the same time. "For years, Americans have been paying more for their homes than they should because of unjust tariffs on softwood lumber. Maybe this level of tariffs will actually have them realize that this is something they are doing to themselves," Trudeau said. "Trump got elected on a commitment to make life better and more affordable for Americans, and I think people south of the border are beginning to wake up to the real reality that tariffs on everything from Canada would make life a lot more expensive." Experts, including Canada's former top trade negotiator Steve Verheul, have warned the country needs to be ready to respond if Trump goes through with his tariff threats. The prime minister said his government is still mulling over "the right ways" to respond, referencing Canada's calculated approach when Trump hit Canada with steel and aluminum tariffs. "It was the fact that we put tariffs on bourbon and Harley-Davidsons and playing cards and Heinz ketchup and cherries and a number of other things that were very carefully targeted because they were politically impactful to the president's party and colleagues," he said. That's how Canada was able to "punch back in a way that was actually felt by Americans," he added. Trudeau also said the country needs to rally together and work past its political differences. He offered up some rare words of praise for Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe — a frequent political thorn in his side and "no big fan of mine" — as one of Canada's strongest voices during that tumultuous time period when NAFTA was under threat. "His voice with governors down south, his making the case for Canadian workers and Canadian trade in a way that complemented the arguments that we were making, did a better job of showing what Canadian unity was and (what) Canada's negotiating position could be to a United States that has a political system that is incredibly fractured and fractious," Trudeau said. On Sunday, Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre said "every single Conservative would tell every single American" that tariffs on Canada would be a bad idea — and also took time to bill Trudeau as a weak leader. One member of his caucus, Conservative MP Jamil Jivani, said he had dinner with incoming vice-president JD Vance and British Conservative Leader Kemi Badenoch over the weekend in Arlington, Va. He said it's crucial right now to be building "strong relationships with our allies." This report by The Canadian Press was first published Dec. 9, 2024. — With files from The Associated Press, Kelly Geraldine Malone and Rosa Saba in Toronto Kyle Duggan, The Canadian PressFOXBOROUGH, Mass. — The New England Patriots are focused on the future following their 25-24 loss to the Indianapolis Colts . The Patriots (3-10) were officially eliminated from playoff contention with the loss Sunday, meaning that this week’s bye in many ways will begin the process of the coaching staff and front office evaluating the roster for 2025. The good news is that this group has shown plenty of grit this season, playing seven games that were decided by one score. The bad news is that the Patriots are just 2-5 in those games. Though New England’s bye comes late in the season, coach Jerod Mayo said the timing is perfect for a team that is feeling the effects of its shortcomings . “A much-needed bye week, not only physically for the players but also mentally, just being able to hit the reset button and come back, put some good games together and continue to build for the future,” Mayo said. “That has to be our goal.” Tight end Austin Hooper said the seed that needs to be planted over the final four games is finding a way to limit the mistakes — namely penalties and trouble finishing drives — that have hampered the offense throughout the season. “We’ve got to execute at a higher level. We can’t beat a team before you stop hurting yourself,” Hooper said. “It’s not for lack of effort, just things that happen out there that get you scars in this league.” This was the most balanced performance by the offense this season, with 222 passing yards and a season-high 200 yards rushing. It shows progress under new coordinator Alex Van Pelt, which is something to build on over the final four games. Red zone efficiency. It continues to be the most glaring deficiency for the Patriots’ offense. They were 2 of 6 on Sunday and rank 30th in the NFL, scoring a touchdown only 44.7% (17 of 38) of the time inside the 20-yard line. TE Hunter Henry. He finished with seven catches for 75 yards, which is his seventh game this season with five or more receptions. He leads the team this season with 58 catches for 610 yards and continues to be a dependable option for quarterback Drake May as he navigates his rookie season. K Joey Slye. He made 3 of his 5 field-goal attempts, including a 54-yarder in the second quarter. Most of the conversation following the game was about his NFL record-long 68-yard attempt that came up short as time expired. But because of the 1-point loss, he was lamenting the 25-yard attempt he missed wide left just before halftime. “I take full responsibility for this,” Slye said. “Every point for this team matters with how we play complementary football with offense, defense and special teams. So, whenever I am out there, I have got to score points.” Henry left the game in the first quarter after a helmet-to-helmet hit. He was able to return in the second quarter and finished the game. 7 — Number of penalties called on the Patriots, costing them 88 yards. Five penalties (four accepted) were called on the offensive line. That included one for holding on Mike Onwenu that nullified a touchdown run by Rhamondre Stevenson in the first quarter and forced New England to settle for a field goal. The Patriots have a bye this week. They visit the Arizona Cardinals on Dec. 15.
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Head coach Vanni Sartini paid the price Monday for the Vancouver Whitecaps’ mediocre results this past season and subsequent first-round playoff exit. His firing came about two weeks after the Major League Soccer team won a play-in game before falling to top-seeded Los Angeles FC in a three-game series that went the distance. “The desperation on my side is absolutely there,” said Axel Schuster, the Whitecaps’ sporting director and chief executive officer. One of the reasons for the change, he said, is everyone in the organization, including himself, needs a reminder that playoff success next year is imperative. “We cannot not get there.” The Whitecaps haven’t reached the conference semifinals since 2017. In a one-hour availability with reporters, Schuster noted the team had the second-worst home record in the Western Conference this year and recorded just two points over its last seven regular-season games. He referenced the need for fresh energy from a new coach and added there was no firm timeline in place for a replacement to be named. “I had to make a professional decision (for) how we can get the biggest impact to make this step forward and to get to a progression,” he said. The Whitecaps’ late-season slump dropped them to eighth place in the West with a record of 13-13-8. Vancouver won a play-in game at Portland before dropping a 1-0 decision at LAFC in the deciding game of the series. Vancouver also won its third-straight Canadian championship this season, beating Toronto FC 4-2 on penalties after the final ended in a 0-0 tie. “I took my time with this decision, and it was not taken lightly,” Schuster said. Sartini, a 47-year-old from Florence, Italy, took over coaching duties on an interim basis in August 2021 after the Whitecaps dismissed Marc Dos Santos. He was officially named head coach that November. “For the last three years and three months, it has been an absolute honour to be the head coach of Vancouver Whitecaps FC,” Sartini said in a release. “I will always be grateful to Axel Schuster and ownership for entrusting me to be the technical lead of this club in such an important time. “Vancouver will always have a special place in my heart and my wife’s heart,” he added. He posted a record of 57-51-39 across all competitions. The exuberant Italian made headlines in November 2023 when he publicly criticized a referee following a playoff game and made a joke about being a suspect if the official were to be found dead. He was suspended for the first six games of the 2024 MLS campaign, fined US$20,000 and ordered to complete a league-approved behavioural assessment. The coach later apologized for the comments and his suspension was cut to four games. Sartini came to Vancouver in 2019 as Dos Santos’ assistant coach and spent two seasons with the first team before being named the club’s “director of methodology” and taking over coaching the U-23 team in 2020. Before joining the Whitecaps, he worked as a coach educator for the Italian Football Federation and the U.S. Soccer Federation, and coached several different clubs in Italy.
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