HARARE – Zimbabwe’s capital markets are undergoing significant transformation, with efforts to address low liquidity, regulatory hurdles, and economic instability paving the way for potential growth. The introduction of the Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG) currency and initiatives to engage international creditors have set the stage for stability and expansion. Market analysts believe that a strategic approach is necessary to stimulate the country’s capital markets in 2025. Business analyst Kudakwashe Mundowozi highlighted the importance of enhancing liquidity through new financial instruments, streamlining regulations, and implementing investor education programs. He also emphasised the need for sustainable investment promotion and a green financing framework to attract socially responsible investors in line with global trends. Fostering public-private partnerships and encouraging foreign direct investment through policy stability and tax incentives are considered critical for long-term growth. By addressing these issues, Zimbabwe can build a more vibrant and resilient capital market. The Zimbabwe Stock Exchange (ZSE) and the Victoria Falls Stock Exchange (VFEX) are seen as key platforms for driving investment and contributing to the country’s economic development. Investment analyst Enock Rukarwa noted that the introduction of ZiG had brought relative stability, shifting stock market activity from flat to a bullish trend in late 2024. However, he pointed out challenges such as the discontinuation of foreign currency settlements, which had briefly improved liquidity. Liquidity, market depth, and size remain areas of concern, with analysts linking these variables to broader macroeconomic dynamics. Improved economic conditions, they argue, would boost confidence and activity in the stock market. Financial analyst Malone Gwadu observed that ZSE served as a haven for investors during periods of volatility, particularly in early 2024, as a hedge against exchange rate losses. However, he identified inflation and exchange rate volatility as systemic threats to market confidence and growth. To encourage market participation, Mr Mundowozi proposed tax incentives for companies listing on the ZSE, citing successful examples from Rwanda and Ireland. He also suggested adopting a fast-track listing process, similar to the Johannesburg Stock Exchange, to attract foreign companies and diversify the investor base. Finance Minister Mthuli Ncube announced plans to further incentivise market activity on the VFEX, which has been hindered by low trading volumes. As part of the 2025 national budget, the Government will reduce capital gains withholding tax on marketable securities on the ZSE, effective January 1, 2025. ZSE Chief Executive Justin Bgoni welcomed the tax reduction, stating it would increase liquidity, attract more investors, and enhance overall market efficiency. Lower taxes could also improve price discovery and make Zimbabwe’s investment landscape more appealing to foreign investors. As these measures take shape, Zimbabwe’s capital markets are expected to play a pivotal role in driving economic growth and attracting both domestic and international investors in the coming years.Dec. 27—As the calendar year winds down, the Sentinel's sports staff looks back on some of the top stories from 2024. "It's the way you want to draw it up every year." The Hershey Bears' 2023-24 season featured a storybook ending when Matt Strome scored the goal 66 seconds into overtime that clinched the club's record 13th Calder Cup championship and ended a wild Game 6 against the Coachella Valley Firebirds in front of a home crowd that packed the Giant Center. Hershey had also beaten Coachella Valley in the 2023 Calder Cup Final and lifted the trophy in back-to-back seasons for the first time since 2009-10. Before the historic celebration on the Giant Center ice in June, the Bears had weathered adversity on their path to another title. They lost a handful of players, notably defensemen, to injury on their playoff run, and in the Eastern Conference Finals, a comfortable 3-0 lead against the Cleveland Monsters slipped into a tense winner-take-all Game 7 in Hershey. But the Bears answered each time. Garrett Roe punched in the game-winning goal in Game 7 of the Eastern Final, and Hershey's defense, backstopped by goaltender Hunter Shepard, held off the high-powered Coachella Valley attack just enough to give the Bears an edge. Hershey's postseason run piggybacked a thrilling regular season that featured another record-setting Teddy Bear Toss and the best record in the club's 86-year history, one win shy of the AHL record. In the final week of the 2024 calendar year, the Bears — hunting for a threepeat — sat atop the Atlantic Division standings. Tim Gross is the sports editor at The Sentinel and cumberlink.com . Email him at tgross@cumberlink.com and follow him on Twitter at: @ByTimGross (c)2024 The Sentinel (Carlisle, Pa.) Visit The Sentinel (Carlisle, Pa.) at www.cumberlink.com Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.In a surprising legal move, special counsel David Weiss filed a motion in the California federal court where Hunter Biden’s tax case is being conducted, calling on the judge not to dismiss the charges following President Joe Biden’s pardon that was announced on Sunday. Biden’s covers the period from Jan. 1, 2014 to Dec. 1, 2024. That time frame includes Hunter’s jury-trial convictions in June for lying on a federal form about his drug use when he purchased a handgun. It also covers his September conviction on nine charges related to his failure to pay at least $1.4 million in taxes from 2016 through 2019. Hunter faced a maximum of 17 years in prison for his tax offenses. “The charges in his cases came about only after several of my political opponents in Congress instigated them to attack me and oppose my election,” Biden in a statement accompanying . In a Monday in a federal district court in California, Weiss wrote, “There was none and never has been any evidence of vindictive or selective prosecution in this case.” “The defendant [ ] made similar baseless accusations in the United States District Court for the District of Delaware. Those claims were also rejected,” he added. “In total, eleven different [federal] judges appointed by six different presidents, including his father, considered and rejected the defendant’s claims, including his claims for selective and vindictive prosecution.” New: Special Counsel David Weiss’s office opposes Hunter Biden’s motion to completely dismiss his indictment based on the pardon. “The Government does not challenge that the defendant has been the recipient of an act of mercy. But that does not mean the grand jury’s decision to... — Matt Rice (@matt____rice) The special counsel’s office urged the judge not to dismiss the tax charges, but instead just close the docket indicating a pardon had been issued. This would allow the record to continue to exist. “[I]t has been the practice of this court that once an Executive Grant of Clemency has been filed on the docket, the docket is marked closed, the disposition entry is updated to reflect the executive grant of clemency, and no further action is taken by the Court,” wrote. He also pointed out that Hunter Biden has not docketed yet with the court, nor has his office seen it. “If media reports are accurate, the Government does not challenge that the defendant has been the recipient of an act of mercy. But that does not mean the grand jury’s decision to charge him, based on a finding of probable cause, should be wiped away as if it never occurred. It also does not mean that his charges should be wiped away because the defendant falsely claimed that the charges were the result of some improper motive,” Weiss wrote. He concluded, “No court has agreed with the defendant on these baseless claims, and his request to dismiss the indictment finds no support in the law or the practice of this district.” Mark Osler, an expert in presidential pardons at the University of St. Thomas, ABC News that Weiss’s filing raises “a technical issue — either way, the case goes away — but an important one.” “[Prosecutors] want the indictment to remain on the record,” he said. reported, “U.S. District Judge Mark Scarsi, who is overseeing Hunter Biden’s tax case in California, has not yet ruled on dismissal.” The news outlet pointed out, “U.S. District Judge Maryellen Noreika, the federal judge in Delaware overseeing Hunter Biden’s gun case, said she intends to terminate the proceedings against him once the pardon is docketed but asked Weiss to inform her whether his office objects to dismissal in that case, too.” We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism. Advertise with The Western Journal and reach millions of highly engaged readers, while supporting our work. .None
Dec. 10—K-State will see more than 1,200 candidates for graduation at commencement ceremonies Friday and Saturday. The university will recognize graduates from the summer 2024 and fall 2024 semesters. The school will award approximately 880 bachelor's degrees, 250 master's degrees and 80 doctorates this fall. More than 50 students will be earning multiple degrees. The graduates-to-be also include nearly 280 students who are earning their degrees through a K-State Online program, officials said. The following is the schedule and speakers for ceremonies on Friday: — Graduate School, 1 p.m., Bramlage Coliseum. Regent Neelima Parasker will represent the Kansas Board of Regents at the ceremony. Garry Myers, director of the Australian Institute for Microbiology & Infection at the University of Technology Sydney, will be the speaker. — Air Force ROTC Detachment 270 commissioning ceremony, 2 p.m., Forum Hall in the K-State Student Union. The commissioning officer and speaker will be Lt. Col. Brian Witthoeft, commander of Detachment 270. — K-State Salina, 7 p.m., Student Life Center, Salina. Retired Col. William Clark, president and CEO of Saint Francis Ministries, will be the speaker. Clark served in the United States Army for 30 years and has led Saint Francis Ministries since November 2020. The following is the schedule and speakers for ceremonies on Saturday: — College of Arts and Sciences, 8:30 a.m., Bramlage Coliseum. The speaker will be Sheila Ellis-Glasper, principal and co-founder of SEG Media Collective. In addition to leading the award-winning agency, Ellis-Glasper has earned accolades including the 2021 Minority Business Advocate of the Year and the 2024 Stacey Hall Humanitarian Award. — Army ROTC Wildcat Battalion ceremony, 9 a.m., Forum Hall in the K-State Student Union. The guest speaker and commissioning officer will be Col. Travis Habhab, First Infantry Division Chief of Staff. — College of Education, 10 a.m., Bramlage Coliseum. Connie Redic, principal of Curtis Middle School, USD 259 Wichita Public Schools, will be the speaker. Redic was named the Kansas Assistant Principal of the Year in 2021, and she earned a doctorate in curriculum and instruction from K-State. — College of Business Administration, 11:30 a.m., Bramlage Coliseum. Julie Bryant, retired manager of accounting operations for Phillips 66, will be the speaker. Bryant is a member of K-State College of Business Administration advisory councils for business and accounting. — College of Agriculture, 1 p.m., Bramlage Coliseum. Cassie Jones, professor and teaching coordinator in K-State's animal sciences and industry department, will be the speaker. In addition to managing the largest undergraduate major on campus, she is also an accomplished researcher with more than 100 peer-reviewed articles. — College of Health and Human Sciences, 2:30 p.m., Bramlage Coliseum. Paul Ewing, CEO of Prosperity Advisors, will be the speaker. Ewing has worked in the financial services industry for more than 40 years, and in addition to leading Prosperity Advisors, he also founded and serves as CEO of the Prosperity Network of Advisors. — Carl R. Ice College of Engineering, 4 p.m., Bramlage Coliseum. Karen Clegg, retired vice president and general manager of Honeywell International Defense and Space, will be the speaker. Clegg was responsible for domestic and international sales, marketing and customer interface, and program management and financial reporting for all aftermarket products. (c)2024 The Manhattan Mercury, Kan. Visit The Manhattan Mercury, Kan. at www.themercury.com Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.Stock market today: Dow hits record as Trump's pick for Treasury stokes optimism
Statue unveiling on Dec 4, no need for politics: CMJudge hears closing arguments on whether Google's advertising tech constitutes a monopolyOpposition sharpens swords to attack ruling BJP during Odisha Assembly Winter Sessionverbaska_studio Haleon plc (HLN, OTCPK:HLNCF ) had a good quarter, with strong pricing flex as well as volumes on average, albeit with some divergences across geographies. As in our previous coverage , oral continues to be the most solid If you thought our angle on this company was interesting, you may want to check out our idea room, The Value Lab . We focus on long-only value ideas of interest to us, where we try to find international mispriced equities and target a portfolio yield of about 4% . We've done really well for ourselves over the last 5 years, but it took getting our hands dirty in international markets. If you are a value-investor, serious about protecting your wealth, our gang could help broaden your horizons and give some inspiration. The Valkyrie Trading Society is a team of analysts sharing high conviction and obscure developed market ideas that are downside limited and likely to generate non-correlated and outsized returns in the context of the current economic environment and forces. They are long-only investors. They lead the investing group The Value Lab where they offer members a portfolio with real time updates, chat to answer questions 24/7, regular global market news reports, feedback on member stock ideas, new trades monthly, quarterly earnings write-ups, and daily macro opinions. Analyst’s Disclosure: I/we have no stock, option or similar derivative position in any of the companies mentioned, and no plans to initiate any such positions within the next 72 hours. I wrote this article myself, and it expresses my own opinions. I am not receiving compensation for it (other than from Seeking Alpha). I have no business relationship with any company whose stock is mentioned in this article. Seeking Alpha's Disclosure: Past performance is no guarantee of future results. No recommendation or advice is being given as to whether any investment is suitable for a particular investor. Any views or opinions expressed above may not reflect those of Seeking Alpha as a whole. Seeking Alpha is not a licensed securities dealer, broker or US investment adviser or investment bank. Our analysts are third party authors that include both professional investors and individual investors who may not be licensed or certified by any institute or regulatory body.
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AP News Summary at 5:51 p.m. ESTOusted NY Rep. Jamaal Bowman pens ‘Dear White People’ letter after Daniel Penny verdict: ‘I don’t know why I feel the need to keep talking to you’NoneHerbert tosses 3 TD passes and Chargers secure a playoff spot with a 40-7 rout of Patriots FOXBOROUGH, Mass. (AP) — Justin Herbert threw three touchdown passes and the Los Angeles Chargers clinched their second playoff appearance in three seasons with a 40-7 victory over the New England Patriots. The win also secured the fourth postseason appearance in Jim Harbaugh’s five seasons as an NFL coach, adding to the three he made during his stint with tAshe San Francisco 49ers. Herbert finished 26 of 38 for 281 yards to become the third player in NFL history with at least 3,000 passing yards and 20 touchdown passes in each of his first five seasons. The Patriots have lost six straight games, their second such losing streak of the season. They are now 2-14 the last two seasons at home. Dallas' Naji Marshall gets 4-game suspension, Phoenix's Jusuf Nurkic is banned 3 games for fight The NBA has suspended Dallas Mavericks forward Naji Marshall for four games and Phoenix Suns center Jusuf Nurkic for three games for their roles in an on-court fight during Friday night’s game. Dallas forward P.J. Washington was suspended for one game. All of the suspensions are without pay. Nurkic was called for an offensive foul while being guarded by Daniel Gafford with 9:02 left in the third quarter before the altercation quickly escalated. Nurkic confronted Marshall before taking an open-handed swing at his head and then Marshall responded with a punch. Washington quickly shoved Nurkic to the ground before the teams were separated. The NBA said Marshall “attempted to further engage Nurkic in a hostile manner in the corridor outside the locker rooms.” Shohei Ohtani to become a father for the 1st time in 2025 LOS ANGELES (AP) — Shohei Ohtani is adding a newcomer to his family lineup. The Los Angeles Dodgers superstar has posted on his Instagram account that he and wife Mamiko Tanaka are expecting a baby in 2025. The photo shows the couple's beloved dog, Decoy, as well as a pink ruffled onesie along with baby shoes and a sonogram that is covered by a baby emoji. Ohtani announced in February that he had married Tanaka, a former professional basketball player from his native Japan. The news from the intensely private player stunned Ohtani's teammates and his fans. Eli Manning and Antonio Gates are among the finalists for the Pro Football Hall of Fame Two-time Super Bowl MVP Eli Manning, former Defensive Players of the Year Luke Kuechly and Terrell Suggs, and prolific tight end Antonio Gates are among the finalists for the 2025 Pro Football Hall of Fame class. The Hall on Saturday announced the names of the 15 modern-era finalists who advanced from a group of 25 to the final stage of voting. The selection committee will vote next month to pick the class of between three and five modern-era players that will be announced the week of the Super Bowl. Georgia QB Carson Beck announces plan to enter NFL draft after season-ending elbow injury Georgia quarterback Carson Beck has announced his plans to enter the NFL draft, five days after having season-ending elbow surgery. The fifth-year senior made his NFL plans official on social media. Beck suffered a right elbow injury in the first half of the Bulldogs’ 22-19 overtime win over Texas in the Southeastern Conference championship game on Dec. 7. Beck had surgery on Monday to repair his ulnar collateral ligament in the elbow. He is expected to begin throwing next spring. Backup Gunner Stockton will make his first start in the Sugar Bowl against Notre Dame on Wednesday. Victor Wembanyama plays 1-on-1 chess with fans in New York Victor Wembanyama went to a park in New York City and played 1-on-1 with fans on Saturday. He even lost a couple of games. Not in basketball, though. Wemby was playing chess. Before the San Antonio Spurs left New York for a flight to Minnesota, Wembanyama put out the call on social media: “Who wants to meet me at the SW corner of Washington Square park to play chess? Im there,” Wembanyama wrote. It was 9:36 a.m. And people began showing up almost immediately. Mavs star Luka Doncic is latest pro athlete whose home was burglarized, business manager says DALLAS (AP) — Luka Doncic of the Dallas Mavericks is the latest professional athlete whose home has been burglarized. The star guard’s business manager tells multiple media outlets there was a break-in at Doncic’s home Friday night. Lara Beth Seager says nobody was home, and Doncic filed a police report. The Dallas Morning News reports that jewelry valued at about $30,000 was stolen. Doncic is the sixth known pro athlete in the U.S. whose home was burglarized since October. Star NFL quarterbacks Patrick Mahomes of Kansas City and Joe Burrow of Cincinnati are among them. The NFL and NBA have issued security alerts to players over the break-ins. Panthers place 1,000-yard rusher Chuba Hubbard on IR for final 2 games with strained calf CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — The Carolina Panthers have shut down leading rusher Chuba Hubbard for the final two games of the season because of a strained calf. He was placed on injured reserve Saturday. Hubbard was limited in practice Friday with a knee injury and was listed as questionable to play Sunday against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. After practice, Hubbard complained of pain and had an MRI, which revealed a grade two calf strain, according to the team. Hubbard ran for 1,195 yards and 10 touchdowns this season. He becomes the third Panthers running back to be placed on injured reserve this season, joining Miles Sanders and rookie Jonathan Brooks. Patriots QB Drake Maye returns to game after evaluation for head injury vs. Chargers FOXBOROUGH, Mass. (AP) — Patriots rookie quarterback Drake Maye has returned to the game after being evaluated for a head injury following a blow to the helmet in the first quarter of New England’s matchup with the Los Angeles Chargers. Maye was scrambling near the sideline on third down of the Patriots’ first possession of the game when he was hit by Chargers cornerback Cam Hart. Maye stayed down on the turf for several seconds before eventually getting up and jogging off the field on his own power. He briefly sat on the bench before going to the medical tent and then the locker room. He was replaced by backup Jacoby Brissett in the next series. But Maye returned at the 10:15 mark of the second quarter. Corbin Burnes and Arizona Diamondbacks agree to $210 million, 6-year deal, AP source says PHOENIX (AP) — Corbin Burnes and the Arizona Diamondbacks have agreed to a $210 million, six-year contract, a person familiar with the negotiations told The Associated Press. The person spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity because the deal was pending a successful physical. The 30-year-old Burnes was perhaps the top free agent pitcher on the market after going 15-9 with a 2.92 ERA for Baltimore last season. The Orioles acquired the right-hander in a February trade after he spent his first six major league seasons with the Milwaukee Brewers.
Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani and his wife, Mamiko Tanaka, are expecting their first child, the player announced Saturday. Ohtani, who set an MLB record this year before going on to win his first World Series title , made the announcement in a post to Instagram with the caption: "Can't wait for the little rookie to join our family soon!" Earlier this year, he became the first Major League Baseball player to hit 50 homers and steal 50 bases in a single season, solidifying his place in baseball history with the record-setting ball later selling for $4.4 million . That was just a little over a month before the Los Angeles Dodgers would face off with the New York Yankees in the Fall Classic. LA's victory in the series, complete with records set by Freddie Freeman and a historic comeback in the final game, was celebrated with the city's first Dodgers parade since 1988 . It was a whirlwind end to Ohtani's first season with the Dodgers, which started off with a $700 million contract announced in December 2023 — the most lucrative signing of an MLB player in the league's history. Tanaka, a professional basketball player, appeared alongside Ohtani in a post to social media earlier this year after the player revealed just weeks before that he's married . At the time, he didn't say who his spouse was but wrote of her affectionately. "Not only have I begun a new chapter in my career with the Dodgers but I also have (begun) a new life with someone from my native country of Japan who is very special to me and I wanted everyone to know I am now married," he posted to Instagram. Marissa Wenzke is a journalist based in Los Angeles. She has a bachelor's degree in political science from UC Santa Barbara and is a graduate of Columbia Journalism School.
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The United States is actively seeking the assistance of Syria's Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) rebel group to locate and secure the release of missing American journalist Austin Tice, who was abducted in 2012. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller confirmed on Tuesday that the U.S. has prioritized Tice's safety in its communications. Efforts to recover Tice have intensified as Washington conveys its message via intermediaries to HTS, despite its designation as a terror organization. This request comes in the wake of Bashar al-Assad's overthrow, with a focus on liberating Syrian prisons. President Joe Biden firmly believes Tice is alive and has deployed envoy Roger Carstens to reinforce these efforts. HTS's public statements emphasize cooperation, though the U.S. is reserving judgment until actions reflect these declarations. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has engaged with Middle Eastern counterparts to support Syria's political transition, aiming for an inclusive governance structure aligning with international standards. The U.S. remains resolute in observing HTS's next moves. (With inputs from agencies.)
Gretchen McKay | (TNS) Pittsburgh Post-Gazette Beans are kind of like the your best friend from high school — nearly forgotten but always ready to step back into the limelight and help out an old pal when needed. As gorgeously (and tantalizingly) demonstrated in Rancho Gordo’s new cookbook, “The Bean Book: 100 Recipes for Cooking with All Kinds of Beans” (Ten Speed, $35), beans are indeed a magical fruit, though not in the way you heard as a kid. Classified as both a vegetable and a plant-based protein in the USDA’s Dietary Guidelines for Americans, beans and other legumes can be the ingredient you build an entire vegetarian or veggie-forward meal around. Or, they can help an economical cook stretch a dish twice as far with nutritious calories. A healthful and shelf-staple plant food — they last for years when dried — beans have been among a home cook’s most reliable pantry items for a very long time. (Common beans (Phaseolus vulgaris) are thought to have been grown in Mexico more than 7,000 years ago.) That’s why, for some, they’re often something of an afterthought, especially if the only time you ate them as a kid was when your mom tossed kidney beans into a pot of beef chili or made baked beans (with brown sugar and bacon, please!) for a family cookout. Vegetarians have always appreciated their versatility and nutritional punch, and because they’re cheap, they also were quite popular during the Great Depression and World War II as C rations. Sales also peaked during the coronavirus pandemic, when shoppers stockpiled long-lasting pantry essentials. It wasn’t until Rancho Gordo, a California-based bean company, trotted out its branded packages of colorful heirloom beans that the plant began to take on cult status among some shoppers. Unlike the bean varieties commonly found in even the smallest grocery stores, heirloom beans are mostly forgotten varieties that were developed on a small scale for certain characteristics, with seeds from the best crops passed down through the generations. The result is beans that are fresher and more colorful than mass-produced beans, and come in different shapes and sizes. They also have a more complex and intense flavor, fans say. “The Bean Book” dishes up dozens of different ways to cook Rancho Gordo’s 50 heirloom bean varieties, which include red-streaked cranberry beans, mint-green flageolets, black and classic garbanzos and (my favorite) vaquero — which wear the same black-and-white spots as a Holstein cow. Other gotta-try varieties (if just for the name) include eye of the goat, European Soldier, Jacob’s Cattle and Good Mother Stallard, a purple bean with cream-colored flecks. “The very good news is that you have to work extra hard to mess up a pot of beans, and it’s not difficult to make an excellent pot,” Steve Sando writes in the book’s foreword. “The even better news is that you become a better cook with each pot you make.” Not convinced? Here are five reasons to jump on the bean bandwagon: Even the smallest grocery store will have a selection of dried and canned beans. Common varieties include black, cannellini (white kidney), Great Northern, pinto, navy, kidney, Lima and garbanzo (chickpea) beans. Even when they’re not on sale, beans are a bargain at the supermarket. Many varieties cost less than $1 a can, and dried beans are an economical way to build a menu. I paid $1.25 for a one-pound bag of cranberry beans, a smooth and velvety bean with a slightly nutty flavor, at my local grocery store. Rancho Gordo’s heirloom beans cost substantially more. (They run $6.25-$7.50 for a one-pound bag, with free shipping on orders over $50.) But they are sold within a year of harvest, which makes them more flavorful and tender. A bag also comes with cooking instructions and recipe suggestions, and the quality is outstanding. Plus, after cooking their beans with aromatics, “you are left with essentially free soup,” Sando writes in the cookbook. “If you drain properly cooked and seasoned beans, the liquid you are left with is delicious.” Beans are a great source of plant-based protein and both soluble and insoluble fiber, and they include essential minerals like iron, magnesium and potassium. If you’re watching your weight or following a particular diet, beans are naturally free of fat, sodium and cholesterol and are rich in complex carbohydrates. They also contain antioxidants and folate. And if you’re vegan or vegetarian, most types of dry beans are rich sources of iron. The U.S. Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends eating 1-3 cups of legumes, including beans, per week Dry beans have to be soaked overnight, but cooking them is easy. They can be cooked on the stovetop, in a slow cooker, in the pressure cooker and in the oven. Canned beans are even easier — just rinse and drain, and they’re ready to go. Beans can be used in so many different dishes. They can be made into soup, salad or dips, top nachos, add some heft to a casserole or be mashed into the makings of a veggie burger. You also can add them to brownies and other baked goods, toss them with pasta, add them to chili or a rice bowl or stuff them into a taco or burrito. Check out these four recipes: PG tested This light and creamy vegetarian soup benefits from a surprising garnish, roasted shiitake mushrooms, which taste exactly like bacon. For soup 1/4 cup olive oil 1 medium yellow onion, chopped 2 celery stalks, chopped 1 medium carrot, scrubbed and chopped 6 garlic cloves, finely grated or pressed 2 sprigs fresh thyme, plus more for garnish 1/2 teaspoon sea salt 1/4 teaspoon pepper 4 cups vegetable broth 2 15-ounce cans cannellini beans, drained and rinsed For bacon 8 ounces shiitake mushrooms, caps cut into 1/8 -inch slices 2 tablespoons olive oil 1/4 teaspoons fine sea salt To finish Plant-based milk Chili oil, for drizzling Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Make soup: In large pot, heat oil over medium heat until it shimmers. Add onion, celery, carrot, garlic, thyme, salt and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are fragrant and tender, 8-10 minutes. Add vegetable stock and beans, increase heat to high and bring mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to medium and simmer until thickened, 12-14 minutes. Meanwhile, make the bacon: Spread shiitake mushrooms into a single layer on a sheet pan, drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper and toss to combine. Bake until browned and crispy, 18-20 minutes, rotating pan front to back and tossing mushrooms with a spatula halfway through. Let cool in pan; mushrooms will continue to crisp as they cool. To finish, add some milk to the soup and use an immersion blender to puree it in the pot, or puree in a blender. (Cover lid with a clean kitchen towel.) Taste and season with more salt and pepper if needed. Divide soup among bowls and top with shiitake bacon. Garnish with thyme sprigs and a drizzle of chili oil. Serves 4-6. — “Mastering the Art of Plant-Based Cooking” by Joe Yonan PG tested Velvety cranberry beans simmered with tomato and the punch of red wine vinegar are a perfect match for a soft bed of cheesy polenta. This is a filling, stick-to-your-ribs dish perfect for fall. 1/4 cup olive oil 1 small onion, finely chopped 2 garlic cloves, minced 2 cups canned chopped tomatoes, juice reserved 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar 2 tablespoons tomato paste 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth 4 fresh sage leaves Salt and pepper 4 cups cooked Lamon or cranberry beans 2 cups uncooked polenta 6 ounces pancetta, diced Chopped fresh basil or parsley, for garnish Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving In large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic and cook, stirring, until onion begins to soften, about 3 minutes. Stir in tomatoes and red wine vinegar. In a small bowl, dissolve tomato paste in the broth and add to pan. Stir in sage and season with salt and pepper. Simmer, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened, 15-20 minutes. Add beans to tomato sauce. Cook, stirring frequently, until heated through, about 15 minutes. Meanwhile, prepare polenta according to package instructions. Place pancetta in a small saucepan over low heat. Cook, stirring frequently, until the pancetta is brown and crisp, about 15 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer pancetta to a paper towel to drain. To serve, spoon polenta into serving dishes. Ladle the beans over the polenta and top with the pancetta. Garnish with fresh basil and serve with grated Parmesan. Serves 6. — “The Bean Book: 100 Recipes for Cooking with All Kinds of Beans” by Steve Sando PG tested Beans and seafood might seen like an unusual pairing, but in this recipe, mild white beans take on a lot of flavor from clams. Spanish chorizo adds a nice contrast. 4 cups cooked white beans, bean broth reserved 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil 1/2 white onion, chopped 2 garlic cloves, chopped 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste 1/2 cup finely chopped Spanish-style cured chorizo 2 plum tomatoes, chopped 1/2 cup dry white wine 2 pounds small clams, scrubbed well Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish Country-style bread and butter, for serving In large pot, heat beans in their broth over medium-low heat. In large lidded saucepan, warm olive oil over medium-low heat. Add onion, garlic and salt and cook until soft, about 5 minutes. Add chorizo and cook gently until some of the fat has rendered, about 5 minutes. Add tomatoes and wine and cook to allow the flavors to mingle, 5-6 minutes. Increase heat to medium and add clams. Cover and cook for about 5 minutes, shaking the pan occasionally. Uncover the pan and cook until all of the clams open, another few minutes. Remove pan from heat, then remove and discard any clams that failed to open. Add clam mixture to the bean pot and stir very gently until well mixed. Simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to mingle but not get mushy. Ladle into large, shallow bowls and sprinkle with parsley. Set out a large bowl for discarded shells and encourage guests to eat with their fingers. Pass plenty of good bread and creamy butter at the table Serves 4-6. — “The Bean Book: 100 Recipes for Cooking with All Kinds of Beans, from the Rancho Gordo Kitchen” by Steve Sando with Julia Newberry PG tested So easy to pull together for your next party! 1 1/2 cups cooked cannellini beans, drained and rinsed 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil Juice and zest of 1 lemon 1 small garlic clove, minced Generous pinch of salt Freshly ground black pepper 2 or 3 tablespoons water, if needed 2 fresh basil leaves, chopped, optional 1 sprig fresh rosemary, leaves chopped, optional In a food processor, pulse cannellini beans, olive oil, lemon juice and zest, garlic, salt and several grinds of pepper until combined. If it’s too thick, slowly add the water with the food processor running until it is smooth and creamy. Blend in the basil and/or rosemary, if using Serve with veggies, pita or bruschetta. Makes 1 1/2 cups — Gretchen McKay, Post-Gazette ©2024 PG Publishing Co. Visit at post-gazette.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.By NADIA LATHAN Associated Press/Report for America Fred Harris, a former Democratic U.S. senator from Oklahoma, is being remembered by party members for his commitment to social and economic justice. Harris died Saturday at age 94. He served in Congress for eight years before mounting an unsuccessful presidential bid in 1976. The Oklahoma Democratic Party commemorated his work in the administration of President Lyndon B. Johnson to investigate civil unrest. Harris chaired the Democratic National Committee from 1969 to 1970 and helped unify the party after its tumultuous national convention in 1968. The former senator appeared at the Democratic National Convention earlier this year where he spoke to the Oklahoma delegation about progress and unity. Oklahoma residents on Sunday mourned the death of former Democratic U.S. Sen. Fred Harris, a trailblazer in progressive politics in the state who ran an unsuccessful presidential bid in 1976. Harris died on Saturday at 94. Democratic Party members across Oklahoma remembered Harris for his commitment to economic and social justice during the 1960s — a period of historical turbulence. Harris chaired the Democratic National Committee from 1969 to 1970 and helped unify the party after its tumultuous national convention in 1968 when protesters and police clashed in Chicago. “Fred Harris showed us what is possible when we lead with both heart and principle. He worked to ensure everyone had a voice and a seat at the table,” said Alicia Andrews, chair of the Oklahoma Democratic Party. Harris appeared at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago earlier this year as a guest speaker for the Oklahoma delegation, where he reflected on progress and unity. “Standing alongside him in Chicago this summer was a reminder of how his legacy continues to inspire,” Andrews said. Kalyn Free, a member of the Choctaw nation of Oklahoma and the DNC, said that there is no one else in public service whom she admired more than the former senator. “He was a friend, a mentor, a hero and my True North. Oklahoma and America have lost a powerful advocate and voice,” Free said in a statement. “His work for Indian Country will always be remembered.” “Senator Harris truly was an Oklahoma treasure and was ahead of his time in so many ways,” said Jeff Berrong, whose grandfather served in the state Senate with Harris. “He never forgot where he came from and he always remained focused on building a society that would provide equality of opportunity for all.” Harris served eight years in the state Senate before he was elected to the U.S. Senate, where he served another eight years before his 1976 presidential campaign. State party leaders commemorated his work on the National Advisory Commission on Civil Disorders, or the Kerner Commission, to investigate the 1960s riots. Harris was the last surviving member of the commission. Shortly after his presidential campaign, Harris left politics and moved to New Mexico and became a political science professor at the University of New Mexico. —- Lathan is a corps member for the Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues.
Champions League round-up: Mbappe scores but picks up injury as Real Madrid return to winning waysMadikeri: Karnataka legislative council member Ivan D'Souza voiced his concern about the growing politics of hatred in the country, highlighting a decline in peace, tolerance, and coexistence. Speaking at the Christmas carol competition inauguration organised by the Roman Catholic Association Kodagu , Kushalnagar, and the Holy Family Temple at Kudige's Angela Educational Institution, the MLC emphasised that all religions advocate peace, love, and harmony. Despite comprising less than 3% of India's and Karnataka's population, the Christian community contributes significantly to healthcare and education, surpassing the combined efforts of other communities that make up 97%, he said. D'Souza acknowledged the state govt's initiatives to address Christian community's concerns. He praised Kodagu's community unity during the Christmas season, noting that festivals foster interfaith harmony. He encouraged the Christian community to prioritise their children's education. Dr Bernard Moras, apostolic administrator of the diocese of Mysore, expressed joy at the district's religious communities uniting for Christmas carol competitions celebrating arrival of Jesus. He wished for Jesus's presence in everyone's hearts and the prevalence of peace, love, and coexistence in society. Roman Catholic Association Kushalnagar Taluk president KA Peter chaired the event, and priests Charles Noronha and M Martin, along with sister Rekha of Angela Educational Institution, Kudige, were present.
Inflation is predicted to average 2.5% this year and 2.6% next year, according to forecasts from the Office for Budget Responsibility. The British Medical Association said the Government showed a “poor grasp” of unresolved issues from two years of industrial action, and the Royal College of Nursing called the pay recommendation “deeply offensive”. The National Education Union’s chief said teachers were “putting the Government on notice” that the proposed increase “won’t do”. The pay recommendations came after Chancellor Rachel Reeves called for every Government department to cut costs by 5%, as she started work on a sweeping multi-year spending review to be published in 2025. Independent pay review bodies will consider the proposals for pay rises for teachers, NHS workers and senior civil servants. The Department of Health said it viewed 2.8% as a “reasonable amount” to set aside, in its recommendations to the NHS Pay Review Body and the Doctors’ and Dentists’ Remuneration Board remit groups. A 2.8% pay rise for teachers in 2025/26 would “maintain the competitiveness of teachers’ pay despite the challenging financial backdrop the Government is facing”, the Department for Education said. The Cabinet Office also suggested pay increases for senior civil servants should be kept to no more than 2.8%. Paul Johnson, director of the influential economics think tank the Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS), said it was “not a bad ballpark figure” and feels “just about affordable” given the Government’s public spending plans. The downside, he said, is that public sector workers have lost out since 2010 and unions will be upset that this is not making up the gap, he told Sky News’ Politics Hub with Sophy Ridge. “But given the constraints facing the Chancellor I think it’s pretty hard to argue for more for public sector pay when public sector services ... are under real strain,” he said. Unions expressed their disappointment in the recommendations, with some hinting they could be willing to launch industrial action. The Royal College of Nursing general secretary and chief executive called for “open direct talks now” to avoid “further escalation to disputes and ballots”. Professor Nicola Ranger said: “The Government has today told nursing staff they are worth as little as £2 extra a day, less than the price of a coffee. “Nursing is in crisis – there are fewer joining and too many experienced professionals leaving. This is deeply offensive to nursing staff, detrimental to their patients and contradictory to hopes of rebuilding the NHS. “The public understands the value of nursing and they know that meaningful reform of the NHS requires addressing the crisis in nursing. “We pulled out of the Pay Review Body process, alongside other unions, because it is not the route to address the current crisis. “That has been demonstrated today. “Fair pay must be matched by structural reform. Let’s open direct talks now and avoid further escalation to disputes and ballots – I have said that directly to government today.” Professor Philip Banfield, chairman of the British Medical Association’s council, urged the sector’s pay review body to “show it is now truly independent”. “For this Government to give evidence to the doctors’ and dentists’ pay review body (DDRB) believing a 2.8% pay rise is enough, indicates a poor grasp of the unresolved issues from two years of industrial action,” he said. He said the proposal is far below the current rate of inflation and that the Government was “under no illusion” when doctors accepted pay offers in the summer that there was a “very real risk of further industrial action” if “pay erosion” was not addressed in future pay rounds. “This sub-inflationary suggestion from the current Government serves as a test to the DDRB. “The BMA expects it to take this opportunity to show it is now truly independent, to take an objective view of the evidence it receives from all parties, not just the Government, and to make an offer that reflects the value of doctors’ skills and expertise in a global market, and that moves them visibly further along the path to full pay restoration.” The NEU’s general secretary, Daniel Kebede, said teachers’ pay had been cut by more than one-fifth in real terms since 2010. “Along with sky-high workload, the pay cuts have resulted in a devastating recruitment and retention crisis. Teacher shortages across the school system hit pupils and parents too. “A 2.8% increase is likely to be below inflation and behind wage increases in the wider economy. This will only deepen the crisis in education.” In a hint that there could be a return to industrial action he added: “NEU members fought to win the pay increases of 2023 and 2024. “We are putting the Government on notice. Our members care deeply about education and feel the depth of the crisis. This won’t do.” The offer for teachers is the “exact opposite of fixing the foundations” and will result in bigger class sizes and more cuts to the curriculum, Pepe Di’Iasio, general secretary of the Association of School and College Leaders, said: “The inadequacy of the proposed pay award is compounded by the Government’s intention that schools should foot the bill out of their existing allocations. “Given that per-pupil funding will increase on average by less than 1% next year, and the Government’s proposal is for an unfunded 2.8% pay award, it is obvious that this is in fact an announcement of further school cuts.” Paul Whiteman, general secretary at school leaders’ union NAHT, said: This recommendation falls far short of what is needed to restore the competitiveness of the teaching profession, to enable it to retain experienced professionals and attract new talent. Unison head of health Helga Pile said: “The Government has inherited a financial mess from its predecessors, but this is not what NHS workers wanted to hear. “Staff are crucial in turning around the fortunes of the NHS. Improving performance is a key Government pledge, but the pay rise proposed is barely above the cost of living.”Ganderbal , Dec 28: Following heavy snowfall across the Kashmir Valley, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Saturday drove to his home assembly constituency Ganderbal to assess the situation and take stock of the measures being taken there. On his arrival the Chief Minister Omar Abdullah visited District Hospital Ganderbal and assessed the facilities and services available to patients during the inclement weather. He inspected various units of the hospital and reviewed the availability of essential medicines, staff on duty and the functionality of the central heating system. Medical Superintendent briefed the Chief Minister on the hospital’s preparedness to ensure patient care, confirming that the central heating system is fully operational. Chief Minister directed the hospital authorities to strictly enforce the duty roster for medical and paramedical staff to ensure uninterrupted services to avoid inconvenience to patients. Later Chief Minister Omar Abdullah visited the Mini secretariat Ganderbal and chaired a meeting of the district officers to take stock of the situation and preparedness in his constituency. Advisor to the CM Nasir Aslam Wani, Deputy Commissioner Ganderbal Shyambir were present among other senior officers. CM directed the officers to be visible on ground and monitor the situation. Omar also told the Deputy Commissioners to send the regular updated to his and the Chief Secretary office daily so that the situation is monitored closely. Talking to media persons, the Chief Minister said that he wanted to visit his constituency to assess the situation first-hand and monitor the district administration’s efforts to provide relief to people due to snowfall and ensure the essential services are available and road clearance work is carried out on priority. He said. “ There are places where electricity has been affected due to snowfall and that would be restored by Saturday evening. Efforts are also on to clear the major roads first that are blocked due to snow and followed by inner roads ,” he said. Asked about the restoration of water supply in certain areas, Omar Abdullah said wherever the supply can be restored immediately, it would be done, and wherever it would take time, water tankers would be made available. Later, Chief Minister convened a video conference meeting with all district across Jammu and Kashmir to review snow clearance operations and restoration of essential services following heavy snowfall in the Kashmir Valley.( MENAFN - Caribbean News Global) TAIPEI, (Taiwan Today ) – The government of Taiwan will draft the 2025-2028 national science and technology development plan based on the results of the recently concluded 12th National Science and Technology Conference, says premier Cho Jung-tai on December 26, 2024. According to the National Science and Technology Council (NSTC), the policy goals will promote smart technology and create an innovative Economy while balancing social development, net-zero emissions and sustainability. Premier Jung-tai made the remarks after listening to the briefing on the conference by the National Science and Technology Council at the Executive Yuan. “To advance smart technology, the government will continue the promotion of the five trusted industry sectors action plan and expand artificial intelligence applications in various sectors,” the NSTC said. In addition,“Taiwan's semiconductor sector would further integrate cutting-edge technology such as drones, robots and satellites,” the council added. To create an innovative economy, the NSTC urged the government to accelerate digital and green transformation for small- and medium-sized enterprises, adding that the public and the private sectors should work together to cultivate diverse personnel. “The long-term care plan 3.0 and smart medical care needed to be taken into consideration to achieve balanced social development,” the NSTC said.“The government should also work to balance urban and rural development while committing to preservation and revitalization of cultural assets.” The NSTC said the government should promote low-carbon technology and green energy, while strengthening infrastructure to provide stable electricity in the pursuit of net-zero emission goals. The circular economy is also an important element in realizing green production and consumption, the council advised. Premier Jung-tai added that the 2025 science and technology budget will top NT$196.5 billion (US$60 billion), with a flagship project launched by the government to enhance Taiwan's municipal infrastructure with over 140 essential projects in six areas around Taiwan. Meanwhile, Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA) unveiled its 2025 development strategies in response to new geopolitical challenges and economic uncertainties. TAITRA chair James C.F. Huang said that given Taiwan's key position in the global supply chain, the inauguration of US president Donald J. Trump will have a major effect on global tariffs, trade and logistics. “ The country's small- and medium-sized enterprises need to formulate new strategies since they will feel the greatest impact,” Huang added.“As a result, in 2025 TAITRA will step up research on geoeconomics and the US market; promote the five Trusted Industry Sectors unveiled by president Lai Ching-te in his inauguration speech in May; implement the ministry of economic affairs' export promotion campaigns; and initiate a raft of events, such as trade shows at home and abroad, to help local firms stay ahead of technological development trends and tap into related business opportunities,” Huang said. Equally important, Huang said the council will continue to conduct geoeconomic surveys for its TAITRA Index, and include its global network for data collection. TAITRA announced new initiatives for 2025 including: The post Taiwan's smart technology and innovative economy core to national development plan and development strategies appeared first on Caribbean News Global . MENAFN28122024000232011072ID1109038198 Legal Disclaimer: MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.
I’ve been doing a lot of in-depth analysis of players recently, so we’re going to go a little broader this week. Dynasty rankings shouldn’t be volatile because they’re based on long-term projections. A short stretch of success shouldn’t dramatically impact a player’s dynasty ranking, but there are scenarios where that can happen. We’re over a month into the season, which makes this a great time to evaluate preseason dynasty rankings and provide context as to why my evaluation of these players has changed. There aren’t new rankings on the way, but whenever that happens, here are 10 players that will be ranked higher. These aren’t the only ten players that will move up, but they likely will be the biggest risers up the board. They’re ordered by their previous rank, so that doesn’t mean that this would be the order if they were ranked. Jalen Johnson (Preseason Dynasty Rank: 26) I was high on Johnson after last season, but I considered that his breakout year. I knew there was more room to grow, but I didn’t expect him to take another leap like this. He has averaged 19.8 points, 9.9 rebounds, 5.5 assists, 1.3 steals, 1.1 blocks and 1.6 threes per game, all of which are career-highs. The turnovers have gone up, which was to be expected with Dejounte Murray gone. Johnson became the team’s secondary playmaker, which has inflated everything. Despite taking 37% of his shots in the restricted area, Johnson has only taken 3.2 free throws per game, which is surprising and frustrating. However, it shows that there is still plenty of room for growth, which is scary. Jalen Williams Preseason Dynasty Rank: (27) JDub has been an excellent 9-cat option since his rookie year, but he has ascended into fantasy superstardom this season. Typically, older prospects aren’t as exciting to draft because they may not have the same upside, even if they produce early on. However, Williams has been an exception to that rule. He has averaged career-highs of 22.0 points, 6.1 rebounds, 5.0 assists, 2.1 steals, 0.8 blocks and 2.1 threes per game. His usage has gone up, which can partially be attributed to Chet Holmgren’s absence, but his efficiency has only taken a small hit. JDub is the truth and will be a dominant dynasty player for a long, long time. Tari Eason (Preseason Dynasty Rank: 79) Eason’s second year in the league was plagued by injuries, which resulted in him sliding down my rankings a bit. However, he has reminded us of how good he can be in limited minutes. Eason has been a top-50 player this year with averages of 11.3 points, 6.5 rebounds, 2.1 steals, 1.0 block and 0.9 threes in just 22.9 minutes per game. The stocks have carried his value, but those numbers are sustainable for one of the best young defenders in the league. Eason and Amen Thompson have formed quite the bench duo, and it’s going to be difficult to keep them out of the starting unit for long. Walker Kessler (Preseason Dynasty Rank: 98) Utah’s unwillingness to make Kessler a full-time starter in year two was discouraging and begged the question of how highly they valued him. In year three, they have given him the job, and the fantasy production has been as good as we expected. He has averaged a double-double with three blocks per game while shooting 73.1% from the floor. His impact is dependent on three categories, but there aren’t many players in the league that can provide that level of dominance, especially at 23 years old. Jalen Suggs (Preseason Dynasty Rank: 100) This one may not be universally accepted, but I believe Suggs has taken a step forward this year. I think the next few weeks may be a good indication of how he should be valued. Suggs has shot the ball terribly this year after taking a massive shooting leap last season. That should improve, but with both Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner sidelined, we’ll get to see what he’s all about until Banchero returns. He’s averaging 16.0 points, 3.9 rebounds, 3.9 assists, 1.5 steals, 0.9 blocks and 2.3 threes per game, with everything aside from the assists being career-highs. He has also shot a career-high 92.1% from the free throw line, which should give us confidence that the deep-range shooting will get back to what it was last year. Cam Thomas (Preseason Dynasty Rank: 113) Thomas will absolutely move up my rankings, but I’m not sure how high he climbs. He’s been awesome this year, but I still have so many questions. He’s been a streaky shooter, so can he produce like this for a full season? Is he good enough to do this on a playoff team, or is he just a product of a situation that is begging him to provide offense? Will he always be on a lottery team or will he accept a reduced role in order to be on a winning team? He’s been sidelined for the last couple of weeks, but over the course of the year, he has averaged career-highs of 24.7 points, 3.4 assists and 2.9 threes while shooting 46.1% from the floor. Thomas won’t ever be a reliable contributor of defensive numbers, but a 23-year-old that is scoring almost 25 points per game is difficult to ignore. Dyson Daniels Preseason Dynasty Rank: (133) I wanted to avoid players that I’ve already done a dynasty breakdown for, but Daniels is impossible to leave off this list. That column was written before his streak of games with at least six steals, and he has also had some incredible offensive performances during that time. His value has mostly come from his steals, but he has been one of the most impactful defenders in the league this year. Barring a drop in production, Daniels will make the first All-Defensive Team of his career. His leap this year after being stuck on the Pelicans’ bench for the first two years of his career should be encouraging for how we value players like Eason, who are in a similar situation. Gradey Dick (Preseason Dynasty Rank: 163) Dick has tailed off a bit after a hot start, but he has been impressive in year two. He has averaged 17.9 points, 3.2 rebounds, 2.0 assists, 0.9 steals and 2.5 threes in 32.5 minutes per game. Most of his value will come from points and 3-pointers, but he has solidified his place in the starting unit for this team. There is room for growth in other areas, but at 21 years old, he can also still improve in the areas that he is already strong in. Dick is the type of player that is at his best when he has talent around him, but Toronto has dealt with so many injuries this year. If we get to see this team at full strength, Dick will thrive. Payton Pritchard (Preseason Dynasty Rank: 168) Boston re-signed Pritchard to a team-friendly deal this summer, and it is going to be one of the best bargains in the league for a long time. Pritchard has taken a huge step forward this year without an unsustainable role increase. He has averaged 16.1 points, 3.3 rebounds, 2.9 assists, 1.0 steal and 3.7 threes in 28.2 minutes per game while shooting 48.7% from the floor. Aside from the assists, those are all career-highs. Situations can change quickly in the NBA, and even though it seems like Boston’s team is locked in for the next few years, that may not be the case. However, Pritchard has provided fifth-round value so far, which is way better than every other season of his career. Norman Powell (Preseason Dynasty Rank: 245) He’s on the wrong side of 30, so his dynasty value won’t rise too much, but he has been too good to be ranked this low. Powell has thrived with Kawhi Leonard injured and Paul George now in Philly, which has allowed him to have the best season of his career. He is averaging career-highs of 23.6 points, 2.5 assists and 3.8 threes per game, which have resulted in top-50 production in 9-cat leagues. He is shooting 48.6% from beyond the arc this year, which may regress a bit, but still, I was far too low on Powell heading into this year. Even if he can only do this for a couple more years, that is enough to make him incredibly valuable for win-now teams.