m jili77.com

m jili77.com Subscription and support revenue grew 13% year-over-year to US$46.8 million Professional services and other revenue in the quarter increased to US$7.5 million Annual Recurring Revenue 1 reached US$201.7 million , up 12% over the prior year Adjusted EBITDA 2 of US$10.4 million and Adjusted EBITDA margin 2 of 19.2% margin in the quarter Company increases Fiscal 2025 revenue guidance to $204 million to $205 million and increases Adjusted EBITDA guidance to $25.5 million to $26.5M million TORONTO , Dec. 4, 2024 /CNW / - D2L Inc. DTOL ("D2L" or the "Company") , a leading global learning technology company, today announced financial results for its Fiscal 2025 third quarter ended October 31, 2024 . All amounts are in U.S. dollars and all figures are prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards ("IFRS") unless otherwise indicated. "Our strong third-quarter results were highlighted by healthy growth in subscription revenue and significant margin expansion, driving substantial improvement in our 'Rule of 40' performance as we successfully balance growth and market share gains with improving profitability," said John Baker , CEO of D2L. "We continue to benefit from high win rates in our target markets as we navigate the broader macroeconomic conditions. We're making disciplined investments that support our goal of long-term market leadership, and have seen strong customer response and pipeline generation from our recently expanded product portfolio, including our AI offering Lumi and Creator+. These new products make learning experiences better and easier to create for our customers, leading to improved learning outcomes and better learner retention." Third Quarter Fiscal 2025 Financial Highlights Total revenue was $54.3 million , up 18% from the same period in the prior year. Subscription and support revenue was $46.8 million , an increase of 13% over the same period of the prior year. Professional services and other revenue was $7.5 million , an increase of $2.8 million from the same period of the prior year. During the current quarter, the Company recognized services revenue of $1.2 million from re-evaluating the completion progress of certain professional services engagements. Excluding this revenue, services revenue increased by $1.6 million over the prior year, and total revenue increased by $7.1 million or 15.2% year over year. Annual Recurring Revenue 1 as at October 31, 2024 increased by 12% or $21.6 million year-over-year, from $180.1 million to $201.7 million . Cash flow from operating activities was $11.4 million , compared to $15.3 million in the same period in the prior year, and Free Cash Flow 2 was $11.3 million , compared to $14.2 million in the same period in the prior year. Cash flow from operating activities for the 9-month period ended October 31, 2024 was $28.0 million , up 32% compared with $21.2 million for the same period in the prior year. Gross profit increased 22% to $37.4 million (68.9% gross profit margin) from $30.6 million (66.4% gross profit margin) in the same period of the prior year. Gross profit margin for subscription and support revenue increased to 72.7%, up 140 basis points from 71.3% in the same period of the prior year. Adjusted EBITDA 2 increased to $10.4 million (19.2% Adjusted EBITDA margin 2 ) from $2.1 million (4.6%) for the same period in the prior year. Excluding the additional services revenue of $1.2 million recognized in the quarter, Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA Margin would have been $9.2 million and 17.4%, respectively, for the three months ended October 31 , 2024. Income for the period was $5.5 million , compared with a loss of $0.4 million for the comparative period of the prior year. Strong balance sheet at quarter end, with cash and cash equivalents of $108.3 million and no debt. During the third quarter, the Company repurchased and canceled 68,600 Subordinate Voting Shares under its normal course issuer bid ("NCIB"). The Company has repurchased and cancelled 348,080 shares since the inception of the NCIB on December 8, 2023 . On December 4, 2024 , the Company announced that the Toronto Stock Exchange (the "TSX") accepted the Company's notice to launch a new NCIB, commencing on December 9, 2024 . 1 Refer to "Key Performance Indicators" section of this press release. 2 A non-IFRS financial measure or non-IFRS ratio. Refer to "Non IFRS Financial Measures" section of this press release. Third Quarter Fiscal 2025 Financial Results – Selected Financial Measures (in thousands of U.S. dollars, except for percentages) Three months ended October 31 Nine months ended October 31 2024 2023 Change Change 2024 2023 Change Change $ $ $ % $ $ $ % Subscription & Support Revenue 46,752 41,450 5,302 12.8 % 133,723 120,045 13,678 11.4 % Professional Services & Other Revenue 7,547 4,663 2,884 61.8 % 18,240 14,766 3,474 23.5 % Total Revenue 54,299 46,113 8,186 17.8 % 151,963 134,811 17,152 12.7 % Constant Currency Revenue 1 54,106 46,113 7,993 17.3 % 152,126 134,811 17,315 12.8 % Gross Profit 37,390 30,600 6,790 22.2 % 103,441 90,161 13,280 14.7 % Adjusted Gross Profit 1 37,964 30,778 7,186 23.3 % 104,439 90,622 13,817 15.2 % Adjusted Gross Margin 1 69.9 % 66.7 % 68.7 % 67.2 % Income (Loss) for the period 5,547 (387) 5,934 1,533.3 % 5,857 (4,105) 9,962 242.7 % Adjusted EBITDA 1 10,420 2,122 8,298 391.0 % 18,652 4,399 14,253 324.0 % Cash Flows From Operating Activities 11,420 15,318 (3,898) (25.5 %) 28,037 21,171 6,866 32.4 % Free Cash Flow 1 11,296 14,244 (2,948) (20.7 %) 27,567 16,009 11,558 72.2 % 1 A non-IFRS financial measure or non-IFRS ratio. Refer to the "Non-IFRS Financial Measures and Reconciliation of Non-IFRS Financial Measures" section of this press release for more details. Third Quarter Business & Operating Highlights D2L continued to grow its customer base in education in North America , including the additions of the Cincinnati State Technical and Community College, University of the Fraser Valley, and Prairie View A&M University . D2L continued to expand its international customer base, including XP Educação in Brazil and the main statutory body overseeing legal education and training in New Zealand . Signed new corporate customers, including Becoming Institute and the premier academic trauma surgery organization in the United States . Launched Creator+ natively integrated with H5P Group AS ("H5P"), offering an all-in-one solution for creating engaging courses with interactive content, video tools, dynamic analytics, and generative AI. Early adopters include the University of Hawaiʻi System. The Tambellini Group, the leading analyst and advisory firm focused on higher education, ranked D2L Brightspace highest among competitors for usability and innovation in the inaugural Tambellini StarChartTM 2024 for Learning Management Systems ("LMS") in higher education. Named a winner in the 2024 LMS Top 20 Company by Training Industry and a winner in the 2024 Learning Systems Awards for Best Enterprise LMS by Talented Learning. D2L Lumi was named a winner of the Tech & Learning Awards of Excellence: Back to School 2024 in the Primary and Higher Education categories. Announced a strategic partnership with Seesaw, the leading elementary Learning Experience Platform to enhance the K-12 digital learning experience. Financial Outlook D2L updated its previously issued financial guidance for the year ended January 31, 2025 ("Fiscal 2025") as follows: Subscription and support revenue in the range of $180 million to $181 million , implying growth of 11% at the midpoint over Fiscal 2024, an increase from previously issued guidance of $178 million to $181 million ; Total revenue in the range of $204 million to $205 million , implying growth of 12% at the midpoint over Fiscal 2024, an increase from previously issued guidance of $199 million to $202 million ; and Adjusted EBITDA in the range of $25.5 million to $26.5 million , implying Adjusted EBITDA margin of 13% at the midpoint, an increase from previously issued guidance of $22 million to $24 million . These guidance revisions reflect the Company's continued progress in balancing revenue growth with operating efficiency improvements. For additional details on the Company's outlook, including the principal underlying assumptions and risk factors regarding achievement, refer to the "Financial Outlook" section of the Company's Management's Discussion and Analysis for the three and 12 months ended January 31, 2024 (the "Annual MD&A"), as well as the "Forward-Looking Information" section therein, below and in the Company's Management's Discussion and Analysis for the three months ended October 31, 2024 (the "Interim MD&A"). Conference Call & Webcast D2L management will host a conference call on Thursday, December 5, 2024 at 8:30 am ET to discuss its third quarter Fiscal 2025 financial results. Date: Thursday, December 5, 2024 Time: 8:30 am (ET) Dial in number: Canada/US: 1 (833) 470-1428 International: 1 (404) 975-4839 Access code: 027545 Webcast: A live webcast will be available at ir.d2l.com/events-and-presentations/events/ The webcast will also be archived Forward-Looking Information This press release includes statements containing "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities laws. In some cases, forward-looking information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "plans", "expects", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "outlook", "target", "forecasts", "projection", "potential", "prospects", "strategy", "intends", "anticipates", "seek", "believes", "opportunity", "guidance", "aim", "goal" or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain future conditions, actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "should", "might", "will", "can", or negative versions thereof, "be taken", "occur", "continue" or "be achieved", and other similar expressions. Statements containing forward-looking information are not historical facts, but instead represent management's expectations, estimates and projections regarding future events or circumstances. This forward-looking information relates to the Company's future financial outlook and anticipated events or results and includes, but is not limited to, statements under the heading "Financial Outlook" and information regarding: the Company's financial position, financial results, business strategy, performance, achievements, prospects, objectives, opportunities, business plans and growth strategies, including the Company's balance growth and profitability plan; the Company's budgets, operations and taxes; judgments and estimates impacting the financial statements; the markets in which the Company operates; industry trends and the Company's competitive position; and expansion of the Company's product offerings, including the impact of AI offerings on the Company's addressable market and revenue opportunity. Forward-looking information is based on certain assumptions, expectations and projections, and analyses made by the Company in light of management's experience and perception of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments and other factors it believes are appropriate, including the following: the Company's ability to win business from new customers and expand business from existing customers; the timing of new customer wins and expansion decisions by existing customers; the Company's ability to generate revenue and expand its business while controlling costs and expenses; the Company's ability to manage growth effectively; the Company's ability to hire and retain personnel effectively; the effects of foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations on our operations; the ability to seek out, enter into and successfully integrate acquisitions, including the acquisition of H5P; business and industry trends, including the success of current and future product development initiatives; positive social development and attitudes toward the pursuit of higher education; the Company's ability to maintain positive relationships with its customer base and strategic partners; the Company's ability to adapt and develop solutions that keep pace with continuing changes in technology, education and customer needs; the ability to patent new technologies and protect intellectual property rights; the Company's ability to comply with security, cybersecurity and accessibility laws, regulations and standards; the assumptions underlying the judgments and estimates impacting on financial statements; and the Company's ability to retain key personnel; the factors and assumptions discussed under the "Financial Outlook" section of the Annual MD&A, and that the list of factors referenced in the following paragraph, collectively, do not have a material impact on the Company. Although the Company believes that the assumptions underlying such forward-looking information were reasonable when made, they are inherently uncertain and are subject to significant risks and uncertainties and may prove to be incorrect. The Company cautions investors that forward-looking information is not a guarantee of the future and that actual results may differ materially from those made in or suggested by the forward-looking information contained in this press release. Whether actual results, performance or achievements will conform to the Company's expectations and predictions is subject to a number of known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, including but not limited to the risks identified herein, or at "Summary of Factors Affecting Our Performance" of the Company's Interim MD&A or in the "Risk Factors" section of the Company's most recently filed annual information form, in each case filed under the Company's profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.com . If any of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or if assumptions underlying the forward-looking information prove incorrect, actual results might vary materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking information. Given these risks and uncertainties, investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information, including any financial outlook. Any forward-looking information that is contained in this press release speaks only as of the date of such statement, and the Company undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking information or to publicly announce the results of any revisions to any of those statements to reflect future events or developments, except as required by applicable securities laws. Comparisons of results for current and any prior periods are not intended to express any future trends or indications of future performance, unless specifically expressed as such, and should only be viewed as historical data. About D2L Inc. DTOL D2L is transforming the way the world learns, helping learners achieve more than they dreamed possible. Working closely with customers all over the world, D2L is on a mission to make learning more inspiring, engaging and human. Find out how D2L helps transform lives and delivers outstanding learning outcomes in K-12, higher education and business at www.D2L.com . D2L Inc. Condensed Consolidated Interim Statements of Financial Position (In U.S. dollars) As at October 31, 2024 and January 31, 2024 (Unaudited) October 31, 2024 January 31, 2024 Assets Current assets: Cash and cash equivalents $ 108,252,331 $ 116,943,499 Trade and other receivables 20,379,489 23,025,690 Uninvoiced revenue 3,896,203 3,971,861 Prepaid expenses 6,559,188 10,517,226 Deferred commissions 5,134,323 5,334,864 144,221,534 159,793,140 Non-current assets: Other receivables 480,621 537,056 Prepaid expenses 381,939 119,872 Deferred income taxes 573,268 529,674 Right-of-use assets 8,127,082 8,774,960 Property and equipment 7,402,295 8,427,734 Deferred commissions 7,449,801 7,730,724 Investment in associate 21,248 — Loan receivable from associate 5,120,885 — Intangible assets 18,073,003 770,707 Goodwill 26,379,860 10,440,091 Total assets $ 218,231,536 $ 197,123,958 Liabilities and Shareholders' Equity Current liabilities: Accounts payable and accrued liabilities $ 28,615,437 $ 32,635,926 Deferred revenue 105,842,166 93,727,368 Lease liabilities 1,396,079 1,002,464 Contingent consideration 4,893,539 271,479 140,747,221 127,637,237 Non-current liabilities: Deferred income taxes 4,119,188 587,075 Lease liabilities 10,660,223 11,707,534 Contingent consideration — 311,839 14,779,411 12,606,448 155,526,632 140,243,685 Shareholders' equity: Share capital 367,288,877 364,830,884 Additional paid-in capital 48,190,065 47,485,107 Accumulated other comprehensive loss (7,333,643) (4,998,317) Deficit (345,440,395) (350,437,401) 62,704,904 56,880,273 Related party transactions Subsequent event Total liabilities and shareholders' equity $ 218,231,536 $ 197,123,958 D2L INC. Condensed Consolidated Interim Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) (In U.S. dollars) For the three and nine months ended October 31, 2024 and 2023 (Unaudited) Three months ended October 31 Nine months ended October 31 2024 2023 2024 2023 Revenue: Subscription and support $ 46,751,998 $ 41,449,926 $ 133,723,027 $ 120,045,266 Professional service and other 7,547,470 4,662,769 18,239,685 14,765,509 54,299,468 46,112,695 151,962,712 134,810,775 Cost of revenue: Subscription and support 12,777,133 11,884,640 36,651,859 33,977,839 Professional services and other 4,132,232 3,627,638 11,870,394 10,671,456 16,909,365 15,512,278 48,522,253 44,649,295 Gross profit 37,390,103 30,600,417 103,440,459 90,161,480 Expenses: Sales and marketing 12,806,266 12,807,855 40,302,476 40,209,601 Research and development 11,139,920 12,351,201 35,294,478 36,015,722 General and administrative 8,651,729 7,102,165 25,231,988 20,603,875 32,597,915 32,261,221 100,828,942 96,829,198 Income (loss) from operations 4,792,188 (1,660,804) 2,611,517 (6,667,718) Interest and other income (expense): Interest expense (235,892) (157,582) (550,438) (456,456) Interest income 870,355 1,221,704 2,899,093 2,938,216 Other income (expense) (122,043) (10,355) (122,000) 4,897 Gain on SkillsWave disposal transaction — — 917,395 — Foreign exchange gain 224,145 314,938 307,859 380,417 736,565 1,368,705 3,451,909 2,867,074 Income (loss) before income taxes 5,528,753 (292,099) 6,063,426 (3,800,644) Income taxes (recovery): Current 246,162 43,883 602,830 435,294 Deferred (264,457) 51,613 (396,134) (130,838) (18,295) 95,496 206,696 304,456 Income (loss) for the period 5,547,048 (387,595) 5,856,730 (4,105,100) Other comprehensive gain (loss): Foreign currency translation gain (loss) 137,532 (1,556,171) (2,335,326) (1,020,872) Comprehensive income (loss) $ 5,684,580 $ (1,943,766) $ 3,521,404 $ (5,125,972) Earnings (loss) per share – basic $ 0.10 $ (0.01) $ 0.11 $ (0.08) Earnings (loss) per share – diluted $ 0.10 $ (0.01) $ 0.10 $ (0.08) Weighted average number of common shares – basic 54,453,244 53,703,768 54,282,281 53,454,498 Weighted average number of common shares – diluted 56,032,694 53,703,768 55,828,067 53,454,498 D2L INC. Condensed Consolidated Interim Statements of Shareholders' Equity (In U.S. dollars) For the nine months ended October 31, 2024 and 2023 (Unaudited) Share Capital Additional paid-in capital Accumulated other comprehensive loss Deficit Total Shares Amount Balance, January 31, 2024 53,978,085 $ 364,830,884 $ 47,485,107 $ (4,998,317) $ (350,437,401) $ 56,880,273 Issuance of Subordinate Voting Shares on exercise of options 410,397 3,443,979 (1,804,429) — — 1,639,550 Issuance of Subordinate Voting Shares on settlement of restricted share units 374,307 1,416,155 (4,602,395) — — (3,186,240) Stock-based compensation — — 7,111,782 — — 7,111,782 Repurchase of share capital for cancellation under NCIB (306,880) (2,402,141) — — — (2,402,141) Change in share repurchase commitment under ASPP — — — — (859,724) (859,724) Other comprehensive loss — — — (2,335,326) — (2,335,326) Income for the period — — — — 5,856,730 5,856,730 Balance, October 31, 2024 54,455,909 $ 367,288,877 $ 48,190,065 $ (7,333,643) $ (345,440,395) $ 62,704,904 Balance, January 31, 2023 53,146,530 357,639,824 46,084,161 (5,001,805) (344,630,902) 54,091,278 Issuance of Subordinate Voting Shares on exercise of options 381,794 3,414,019 (1,443,627) — — 1,970,392 Issuance of Subordinate Voting Shares on settlement of restricted share units 218,010 988,410 (2,474,669) — — (1,486,259) Stock-based compensation — — 7,237,274 — — 7,237,274 Other comprehensive loss — — — (1,020,872) — (1,020,872) Loss for the period — — — — (4,105,100) (4,105,100) Balance, October 31, 2023 53,746,334 $ 362,042,253 $ 49,403,139 $ (6,022,677) $ (348,736,002) $ 56,686,713 D2L INC. Condensed Consolidated Interim Statements of Cash Flows (In U.S. dollars) For the nine months ended October 31, 2024 and 2023 (Unaudited) 2024 2023 Operating activities: Income (loss) for the period $ 5,856,730 $ (4,105,100) Items not involving cash: Depreciation of property and equipment 1,285,970 1,158,782 Depreciation of right-of-use assets 945,223 927,605 Amortization of intangible assets 723,100 60,159 Gain on disposal of property and equipment (51,476) (16,194) Stock-based compensation 7,111,782 7,237,274 Net interest income (2,348,655) (2,481,760) Income tax expense 206,696 304,456 Gain on SkillsWave disposal transaction (917,395) — Loss from equity accounted investee 416,850 — Fair value gain on loan receivable from associate (120,885) — Changes in operating assets and liabilities: Trade and other receivables 3,784,969 1,041,252 Uninvoiced revenue (37,023) (440,936) Prepaid expenses 3,503,610 1,073,501 Deferred commissions 296,245 (1,105,606) Accounts payable and accrued liabilities (6,410,785) 1,952,832 Deferred revenue 11,573,770 13,243,128 Right-of-use assets and lease liabilities (44,962) (57,530) Interest received 2,878,878 2,938,216 Interest paid (19,343) (9,815) Income taxes paid (596,646) (549,475) Cash flows from operating activities 28,036,653 21,170,789 Financing activities: Payment of lease liabilities (1,344,625) (575,023) Lease incentive received 103,128 935,025 Proceeds from exercise of stock options 1,639,550 1,970,392 Taxes paid on settlement of restricted share units (3,186,240) (1,486,259) Repurchase of share capital for cancellation under NCIB (2,402,141) — Cash flows (used in) from financing activities (5,190,328) 844,135 Investing activities: Purchase of property and equipment (521,775) (5,178,461) Proceeds from disposal of property and equipment 51,476 16,537 Acquisition of business, net of cash acquired (22,308,927) (2,793,180) Payment of contingent consideration (249,436) — Transfer of cash on disposal of SkillsWave (1,483,357) — Proceeds from sale of majority ownership stake in SkillsWave 809,038 — Issuance of loan to SkillsWave (5,000,000) — Cash flows used in investing activities (28,702,981) (7,955,104) Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents (2,834,512) (1,701,358) (Decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents (8,691,168) 12,358,462 Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period 116,943,499 110,732,236 Cash and cash equivalents, end of period $ 108,252,331 $ 123,090,698 Non-IFRS Financial Measures and Reconciliation of Non-IFRS Financial Measures The information presented within this press release refers to certain non-IFRS financial measures (including non-IFRS ratios) including Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted EBITDA Margin, Adjusted Gross Profit, Adjusted Gross Margin, Free Cash Flow, Free Cash Flow Margin, and Constant Currency Revenue. These measures are not recognized measures under IFRS and do not have a standardized meaning prescribed by IFRS. Non-IFRS financial measures should not be considered in isolation nor as a substitute for analysis of the Company's financial information reported under IFRS and are unlikely to be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers. Rather, these measures are provided as additional information to complement those IFRS measures by providing further understanding of the Company's results of operations, financial performance and liquidity from management's perspective and thus highlight trends in its core business that may not otherwise be apparent when relying solely on IFRS measures. The Company believes that securities analysts, investors and other interested parties frequently use non-IFRS financial measures in the evaluation of the Company. The Company's management also uses non-IFRS financial measures to facilitate operating performance comparisons from period to period, to prepare annual operating budgets and forecasts, and to assess our ability to meet our capital expenditures and working capital requirements. Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA Margin Adjusted EBITDA is defined as net income (loss), excluding interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (or EBITDA), adjusted for stock-based compensation, foreign exchange gains and losses, non-recurring expenses, transaction-related costs, fair value adjustment of acquired deferred revenue, income (loss) from equity accounted investee, change in fair value on the loan receivable from associate, impairment charges and other income and losses. Adjusted EBITDA Margin is calculated as Adjusted EBITDA expressed as a percentage of total revenue. For an explanation of recent changes to and management's use of Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA Margin see "Non-IFRS and Other Financial Measures – Non-IFRS Financial Measures and Non-IFRS Financial Ratios – Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA Margin" section in the Company's Interim MD&A, which section is incorporated by reference herein. The following table reconciles Adjusted EBITDA to income (loss) for the period, and discloses Adjusted EBITDA Margin, for the periods indicated: (in thousands of U.S. dollars, except for percentages) Three months ended October 31 Nine months ended October 31 2024 2023 2024 2023 Income (loss) for the period 5,547 (387) 5,857 (4,105) Stock-based compensation 2,195 2,068 7,112 7,237 Foreign exchange gains (224) (315) (308) (380) Non-recurring expenses (1) 305 807 2,171 957 Transaction-related costs (2) 1,249 169 2,072 721 Fair value adjustment of acquired deferred revenue 500 — 639 — Change in fair value on loan receivable from associate (121) — (121) — Loss from equity accounted investee 320 — 417 — Net interest income (634) (1,064) (2,348) (2,482) Income tax (recovery) expense (18) 95 207 304 Depreciation and amortization 1,301 749 2,954 2,147 Adjusted EBITDA 10,420 2,122 18,652 4,399 Adjusted EBITDA Margin 19.2 % 4.6 % 12.3 % 3.3 % During the current quarter, the Company recognized services revenue of $1.2 million from re-evaluating the completion progress of certain professional services engagements. Excluding this increase, the Company's Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA Margin would have been $9.2 million and 17.4%, respectively, for the three months ended October 31, 2024 . Notes: (1) These expenses relate to non-recurring activities, such as certain legal fees incurred that are not indicative of continuing operations, and changes of workforce or technology whereby certain functions were realigned to optimize operations. (2) These expenses include certain legal and professional fees that were incurred in connection with acquisition and other strategic transactions, including the disposal of our majority ownership stake in SkillsWave Corporation ("Skillswave") and our acquisition of H5P. These expenses also include post-combination compensation costs from the acquisition of H5P. These expenses are net of a gain of $0.9 million recognized on the disposal of our majority ownership stake in SkillsWave. These expenses would not have been incurred if not for these transactions and are not considered expenses indicative of the Company's continuing operations. Adjusted Gross Profit and Adjusted Gross Margin Adjusted Gross Profit is defined as gross profit excluding related stock-based compensation expenses and amortization from recently acquired intangible assets, specifically acquired technology. Adjusted Gross Margin is calculated as Adjusted Gross Profit expressed as a percentage of total revenue. For an explanation of management's use of Adjusted Gross Profit and Adjusted Gross Margin see "Non-IFRS and Other Financial Measures – Non-IFRS Financial Measures and Non-IFRS Financial Ratios – Adjusted Gross Profit and Adjusted Gross Margin" section in the Company's Interim MD&A, which section is incorporated by reference herein. The following table reconciles Adjusted Gross Margin to gross profit expressed as a percentage of revenue, for the periods indicated: (in thousands of U.S. dollars, except for percentages) Three months ended October 31 Nine months ended October 31 2024 2023 2024 2023 Gross profit for the period 37,390 30,600 103,441 90,161 Stock-based compensation 147 147 442 430 Acquired intangible asset amortization 427 31 556 31 Adjusted Gross Profit 37,964 30,778 104,439 90,622 Adjusted Gross Margin 69.9 % 66.7 % 68.7 % 67.2 % During the current quarter, the Company recognized services revenue of $1.2 million from re-evaluating the completion progress of certain professional services engagements. Excluding this revenue, the Company's Adjusted Gross Profit and Adjusted Gross Margin would have been $36.8 million and 69.2% respectively, for the three months ended October 31, 2024 . Free Cash Flow and Free Cash Flow Margin Free Cash Flow is defined as cash provided by (used in) operating activities less net additions to property and equipment. Free Cash Flow Margin is calculated as Free Cash Flow expressed as a percentage of total revenue. For an explanation of management's use of Free Cash Flow and Free Cash Flow Margin see "Non-IFRS and Other Financial Measures – Non-IFRS Financial Measures and Non-IFRS Financial Ratios – Free Cash Flow and Free Cash Flow Margin" section in the Company's Interim MD&A, which section is incorporated by reference herein. The following table reconciles our cash flow from (used in) operating activities to Free Cash Flow, and discloses Free Cash Flow Margin, for the periods indicated: (in thousands of U.S. dollars, except for percentages) Three months ended October 31 Nine months ended October 31 2024 2023 2024 2023 Cash flow from operating activities 11,420 15,318 28,037 21,171 Net addition to property and equipment (124) (1,074) (470) (5,162) Free Cash Flow 11,296 14,244 27,567 16,009 Free Cash Flow Margin 20.8 % 30.9 % 18.1 % 11.9 % Constant Currency Revenue Constant Currency Revenue is defined as foreign-currency-denominated revenues translated at the historical exchange rates from the comparable prior period into our U.S. dollar functional currency. For an explanation of management's use of Constant Currency Revenue see "Non-IFRS and Other Financial Measures – Non-IFRS Financial Measures and Non-IFRS Financial Ratios – Constant Currency Revenue" section in the Company's Interim MD&A, which section is incorporated by reference herein. The following table reconciles our Constant Currency Revenue to revenue, for the periods indicated: Three months ended October 31 Nine months ended October 31 (in thousands of U.S. dollars) 2024 2023 2024 2023 $ $ $ $ Total revenue for the period 54,299 46,113 151,963 134,811 (Positive) negative impact of foreign exchange rate changes over the prior period (193) — 163 — Constant Currency Revenue 54,106 46,113 152,126 134,811 During the current quarter, the Company recognized services revenue of $1.2 million from re-evaluating the completion progress of certain professional services engagements. Excluding this increase, the Company's constant currency revenue would have been $52.9 million for the three months ended October 31, 2024 . Key Performance Indicators Management uses a number of metrics, including the key performance indicators identified below, to help us evaluate our business, measure our performance, identify trends affecting our business, formulate business plans and make strategic decisions. Our key performance indicators may be calculated in a manner different than similar key performance indicators used by other issuers. These metrics are estimated operating metrics and not projections, nor actual financial results, and are not indicative of current or future performance. Annual Recurring Revenue and Constant Currency Annual Recurring Revenue: We define Annual Recurring Revenue as the annualized equivalent value of subscription revenue from all existing customer contracts as at the date being measured, exclusive of the implementation period. Our calculation of Annual Recurring Revenue assumes that customers will renew their contractual commitments as those commitments come up for renewal. We believe Annual Recurring Revenue provides a reasonable, real-time measure of performance in a subscription-based environment and provides us with visibility for potential growth to our cash flows. We believe that increasing Annual Recurring Revenue indicates the continued strength in the expansion of our business, and will continue to be our focus on a go-forward basis. We define Constant Currency Annual Recurring Revenue as foreign-currency-denominated Annual Recurring Revenue translated at the historical exchange rates from the comparable prior period into our U.S. dollar functional currency. As at October 31 ( in millions of U.S. dollars, except percentages) 2024 2023 Change $ $ % Annual Recurring Revenue 201.7 180.1 12.0 % Constant Currency Annual Recurring Revenue 200.7 180.1 11.4 % SOURCE D2L Inc. View original content to download multimedia: http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/archive/December2024/04/c9449.html © 2024 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.

Freshman Jeremiah Fears, Duke Miles propel Oklahoma to 84-56 victory over East Texas A&M

Freshman Jeremiah Fears, Duke Miles propel Oklahoma to 84-56 victory over East Texas A&M( MENAFN - EIN Presswire) Architectural Services Global market Report 2024 - Market Size, Trends, And Global Forecast 2024-2033 The Business Research Company's Early Year-End Sale! Get up to 30% off detailed market research reports-for a limited time only! LONDON, GREATER LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM, December 20, 2024 /EINPresswire / -- The Business Research Company's Early Year-End Sale! Get up to 30% off detailed market research reports-limited time only! The architectural services market has experienced significant growth in recent years, thanks to strong economic growth in emerging markets, the rise in construction activities, an increase in disposable income, and robust government support. It is projected to grow from $192.53 billion in 2023 to $205.47 billion in 2024, reflecting a compound annual growth rate CAGR of 6.7%. What Will Be The Future Size Of The Architectural Services Market? The architectural services market is anticipated to witness strong growth in the coming years, reaching $263.05 billion in 2028 with a compound annual growth rate CAGR of 6.4%. This boom can be credited to increasing infrastructure expenditures by governments, rapid urbanization, a growing global population, and the evolution of smart cities. For instance, the rise in digitized commerce architecture, progressive advancements in technology, the use of blockchain for enhancing efficiency and data security, a sharp focus on partnerships and alliances for a diversified product portfolio and geographic presence, and an increasing inclination towards metaverse architecture for a virtual world experience are some of the major trends forecasted to transform the market landscape. Grab a free sample of this detailed market report here: What Factors Are Driving The Growth Of The Architectural Services Market? An increasing demand for construction activities has been a critical driver for the growth of the architectural services market. A surge in building activities and a rise in residential sectors worldwide have further propelled the demand for architectural services. Domestic building activities rose by 4.3% in 2021 as compared to 2020, and the value of construction activities grew by 10.2% from $1,626.4 billion in 2021 to $1,792.9 billion in 2022, contributing positively to market growth. You may wish to prebook the full report of this comprehensive research study here: Who Are The Key Players Contributing Towards This Growth? Key industry players in the architectural services market include AECOM, Jacobs Solutions Inc., Fluor Corporation, HOCHTIEF Aktiengesellschaft, Stantec Inc, Arcadis NV, Perkins Eastman, HDR Inc, Gensler, Architecture BRIO, Cadence Architects, CP Kukreja Architects, Design Plus Architects, Ramboll Studio Dreiseitl, PTW Architects, Harry Seidler and Associates, Peter Stutchbury Architecture, Shigeru Ban Architects, among others. How Is Innovation Paving The Future Of The Architectural Services Market? Technological advancements are significantly impacting the architectural services market. Companies are adopting innovative solutions to remain competitive. For instance, in December 2021, COBOD International, a Denmark-based company, and CEMEX, a Mexico-based company launched a unique 3D concrete printing technology to improve construction projects. This innovative technology lowers construction costs, allows new customization and complex designs of structures, improves the production of higher-quality elements through machine-perfect fabrication, and helps builders speed up construction. How Is The Global Architectural Services Market Segmented? The architectural services market covered in this report is segmented on the basis of: 1 By Service Type: Architectural Advisory Services, Construction And Project Management Services, Engineering Services, Interior Design Services, Urban Planning Services, Other Service Types 2 By End-User: Education, Government, Healthcare, Hospitality, Residential, Industrial, Retail, Other End Users What Regions Are Covered in The Architectural Services Market Report? Asia-Pacific was the largest region in the architectural services market in 2023, followed by Western Europe, Eastern Europe, North America, South America, Middle East, and Africa. Browse Through More Similar Reports By The Business Research Company: Design, Research, Promotional And Consulting Services Global Market Report 2024 Powder Coatings Global Market Report 2024 Architectural Metal Coatings Global Market Report 2024 To learn more about The Business Research Company visit: . The Business Research Company has published over 15000+ reports across 27 industries, spanning 60+ geographies. The reports draw on 1,500,000 datasets, extensive secondary research, and exclusive insights from interviews with industry leaders. You may contact us at The Business Research Company Americas: +1 3156230293 Asia: +44 2071930708 Europe: +44 2071930708 Email us at ... Follow us on: LinkedIn: YouTube: Global Market Model: global-market-model Oliver Guirdham The Business Research Company +44 20 7193 0708 email us here Visit us on social media: Facebook X LinkedIn Legal Disclaimer: EIN Presswire provides this news content "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 author above. MENAFN19122024003118003196ID1109014356 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.

Drelon Miller is finishing his freshman year of college in the same stadium where he wrapped up his senior year of high school. On Saturday, the 20th-ranked Colorado Buffaloes will face No. 17 BYU in the Valero Alamo Bowl at the Alamodome in San Antonio (5:30 p.m. MT, ABC). For Miller and a lot of his teammates, it will be somewhat of a homecoming, as 16 Buffs either grew up in Texas or went to high school in the Lone Star State. That’s a group that includes star quarterback Shedeur Sanders and his brother, Shilo, a starting safety. This game has some special meaning to Miller, though. “I just played in the Alamodome for the All-American game, so it’ll be fun to be back out there,” said Miller, who played in the high school all-star game on Jan. 6 before joining the Buffs. One of the top players in the country coming out of Silsbee (Texas) High School a year ago, Miller has certainly made his mark on the Buffs (9-3) this year, especially in recent games. A versatile receiver who can also line up at running back, Miller has caught 31 passes for 277 yards and three touchdowns. That includes a six-catch, 108-yard performance against Utah on Nov. 16 at Folsom Field. “It meant a lot to me (to play right way),” he said. “Coming out of high school, I expected to play early. That was always my goal. So just to come here and show the world what I can do early, it meant a lot for me.” CU is led by a quartet of veteran receivers – Jimmy Horn, Jr., Travis Hunter, Will Sheppard and LaJohntay Wester – but Shedeur Sanders has proven he will throw to young players he trusts. Before an injury, Omarion Miller was a go-to target, and Drelon Miller earned the same level of trust. “It meant a lot, honestly, just to show the coaches and everyone and get my trust from Shedeur,” Miller said. “He trusts me in critical moments and once you get that trust from the quarterback, a lot goes up from there. So I appreciate that, increasing my role on the offensive side of the ball.” The Buffs’ four veteran receivers, as well as Shedeur, will all wrap up their collegiate careers on Saturday against BYU. But, with both Millers expected to return, CU could have a loaded receiver group again in 2025. “It’s gonna be exciting to see all the young guys,” Sheppard said. “A bunch of years ahead of them, already making plays. So it’s gonna be exciting.” Drelon Miller earned the right to play in the Alamodome a year ago as a high school star. He’s also earned the right to play a role in the Alamo Bowl this year, but he’s hoping Saturday’s game is a springboard into an even bigger season in 2025. “I feel like going into next year and the rest of my years, I feel like I grow as a leader, or just a better person,” he said. “So much I learned from these seniors and everyone else leaving; not just the seniors, but everyone transferring. I learned so much from the guys.” That’s why, before this year comes to a close, he hopes to enjoy one last big game with the veterans who taught him so much. “Our expectation is to dominate,” he said. “That’s all we talk about in the room. Our motto is SOB, and that’s ‘stand on business.’ So we’re just gonna dominate. We know what we’ve got to do to win this game. We’ll go take it play by play.”

Social media firms raise 'serious concerns' over Australian U-16 banBurning questions weigh heavily after the devastation

SeaPRwire Expands Media Network and Launches New Solutions in CambodiaPolice hunt for UnitedHealthcare CEO's masked killer after 'brazen, targeted' attack on NYC street NEW YORK (AP) — A gunman killed UnitedHealthcare’s CEO on Wednesday in a “brazen, targeted attack” outside a Manhattan hotel where the health insurer was holding its investor conference, police said, setting off a massive search for the fleeing assailant hours before the annual Rockefeller Center Christmas tree lighting nearby. Brian Thompson, 50, was shot around 6:45 a.m. as he walked alone to the New York Hilton Midtown from a nearby hotel, police said. The shooter appeared to be “lying in wait for several minutes” before approaching Thompson from behind and opening fire, New York City Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch said. Police had not yet established a motive. “Many people passed the suspect, but he appeared to wait for his intended target,” Tisch said, adding that the shooting "does not appear to be a random act of violence.” Surveillance video reviewed by investigators shows someone emerging from behind a parked car, pointing a gun at Thompson’s back, then firing multiple times from several feet away. The gunman continues firing, interrupted by a brief gun jam, as Thompson stumbles forward and falls to the sidewalk. He then walks past Thompson and out of the frame. “From watching the video, it does seem that he’s proficient in the use of firearms as he was able to clear the malfunctions pretty quickly,” NYPD Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny said. ___ UnitedHealthcare CEO kept a low public profile. Then he was shot to death in New York NEW YORK (AP) — Brian Thompson led one of the biggest health insurers in the U.S. but was unknown to millions of people his decisions affected. Then Wednesday's targeted fatal shooting of the UnitedHealthcare CEO on a midtown Manhattan sidewalk thrust the executive and his business into the national spotlight. Thompson, who was 50, had worked at the giant UnitedHealth Group Inc for 20 years and run the insurance arm since 2021 after running its Medicare and retirement business. As CEO, Thompson led a firm that provides health coverage to more than 49 million Americans — more than the population of Spain. United is the largest provider of Medicare Advantage plans, the privately run versions of the U.S. government’s Medicare program for people age 65 and older. The company also sells individual insurance and administers health-insurance coverage for thousands of employers and state-and federally funded Medicaid programs. The business run by Thompson brought in $281 billion in revenue last year, making it the largest subsidiary of the Minnetonka, Minnesota-based UnitedHealth Group. His $10.2 million annual pay package, including salary, bonus and stock options awards, made him one of the company's highest-paid executives. ___ Hegseth fights to save Pentagon nomination as sources say Trump considers DeSantis WASHINGTON (AP) — A defiant Pete Hegseth fought to save his nomination to be Donald Trump's defense secretary Wednesday as the president-elect considered possible replacements in the face of growing questions about the former Fox News host's personal conduct and ability to win Senate confirmation. Hegseth met with legislators on Capitol Hill, conducted a radio interview and released an opinion article denying allegations of sexual assault and excessive drinking. He insisted he was “not backing down one bit," that Trump was still supporting him and he planned to return Thursday for more meetings with lawmakers. But the president-elect's team was looking at alternatives including Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis. Trump himself remained quiet about Hegseth while issuing a flurry of statements on social media Wednesday about other nominees and his news coverage. Hegeth, asked if he'd meet with Trump on Thursday, said he'd meet with him “anytime he'd like." Hegseth is the latest nominee-designate to be imperiled by personal baggage after the recent withdrawal of Trump’s initial pick for attorney general, former Rep. Matt Gaetz, whose vulnerabilities were well-documented. But Hegseth’s past, including the revelation that he made a settlement payment after being accused of a sexual assault that he denies, was not widely known. ___ Supreme Court seems likely to uphold Tennessee's ban on medical treatments for transgender minors WASHINGTON (AP) — Hearing a high-profile culture-war clash, the Supreme Court on Wednesday seemed likely to uphold Tennessee's ban on gender-affirming care for minors. The justices’ decision, not expected for several months, could affect similar laws enacted by another 25 states and a range of other efforts to regulate the lives of transgender people, including which sports competitions they can join and which bathrooms they can use. The case is being weighed by a conservative-dominated court after a presidential election in which Donald Trump and his allies promised to roll back protections for transgender people, showcasing the uneasy intersection between law, politics and individual rights. The Biden administration's top Supreme Court lawyer warned a decision favorable to Tennessee also could be used to justify nationwide restrictions on transgender healthcare for minors. In arguments that lasted more than two hours, five of the six conservative justices voiced varying degrees of skepticism of arguments made by the administration and Chase Strangio, the ACLU lawyer for Tennessee families challenging the ban. ___ Peter Navarro served prison time related to Jan. 6. Now Trump is bringing him back as an adviser WASHINGTON (AP) — Former White House adviser Peter Navarro, who served prison time related to the Jan. 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol, will return to serve in Donald Trump’s second administration, the president-elect announced Wednesday. Navarro, a trade adviser during Trump’s first term, will be a senior counselor for trade and manufacturing, Trump said on Truth Social. The position, Trump wrote, “leverages Peter’s broad range of White House experience, while harnessing his extensive Policy analytic and Media skills.” The appointment was only the first in a flurry of announcements that Trump made on Wednesday as his presidential transition faced controversy over Pete Hegseth, Trump’s choice for Pentagon chief. Hegseth faces allegations of sexual misconduct, excessive drinking and financial mismanagement, and Trump has considered replacing him with another potential nominee. As he works to fill out his team, Trump said he wanted Paul Atkins, a financial industry veteran and an advocate for cryptocurrency, to serve as the next chairman of the Securities and Exchange Commission. He wrote on Truth Social that Atkins “recognizes that digital assets & other innovations are crucial to Making America Greater than Ever Before.” Trump also said he was changing course on his choice for White House counsel. He said his original pick, William McGinley, will work with the Department of Government Efficiency, which will be run by Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy with the goal of cutting federal spending. Now David Warrington, who has worked as Trump’s personal lawyer and a lawyer for his campaign, will serve as White House counsel. ___ Israeli strikes on a Gaza tent camp kill at least 21 people, hospital says KHAN YOUNIS, Gaza Strip (AP) — Israeli airstrikes tore through a tent camp for displaced Palestinians in southern Gaza on Wednesday, sparking fires and killing at least 21 people, according to the head of a nearby hospital, in the latest assault on a sprawling tent city that Israel designated a humanitarian safe zone but has repeatedly targeted. The Israeli military said it struck senior Hamas militants “involved in terrorist activities” in the area, without providing additional details, and said it took precautions to minimize harm to civilians. The strike on the Muwasi tent camp was one of several deadly assaults across the Gaza Strip on Wednesday. An Israeli attack in central Gaza killed at least 10 more people, including four children, according to Palestinian medics. Israel’s devastating war in Gaza, launched after Hamas’ October 2023 attack, shows no signs of ending after nearly 14 months. Hamas is still holding dozens of Israeli hostages, and most of Gaza’s population has been displaced and is reliant on international food aid to survive. Israel is also pressing a major offensive in the isolated north, where experts say Palestinians might be experiencing famine. The Biden administration has pledged to make a new push for a Gaza ceasefire now that there's a truce in Lebanon between Israel and the militant group Hezbollah, ending more than a year of cross-border fighting. Meanwhile, President-elect Donald Trump demanded this week the release of hostages held by Hamas before he is sworn into office in January. ___ South Korean President Yoon's martial law declaration raises questions over his political future SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — President Yoon Suk Yeol’s stunning martial law declaration lasted just hours, but experts say it raised serious questions about his ability to govern for the remaining 2 1/2 years of his term and whether he will abide by democratic principles. The opposition-controlled parliament overturned the edict, and his rivals on Wednesday took steps to impeach him. One analyst called his action “political suicide.” Yoon’s political fate may depend on whether a large number of people in coming days take to the streets to push for his ouster. Here's a look at the political firestorm caused by the martial law declaration, the first of its kind in more than 40 years. Yoon's declaration of emergency martial law on Tuesday night was accompanied by a pledge to eliminate “shameless North Korea followers and anti-state forces at a single stroke.” He vowed to protect the country from “falling into the depths of national ruin.” Yoon, a conservative, cited repeated attempts by his liberal rivals in control of parliament to impeach his top officials and curtail key parts of his budget bill for next year. ___ French lawmakers vote to oust prime minister in the first successful no-confidence vote since 1962 PARIS (AP) — France’s far-right and left-wing lawmakers joined together Wednesday in a historic no-confidence vote prompted by budget disputes that forces Prime Minister Michel Barnier and his Cabinet members to resign, a first since 1962. The National Assembly approved the motion by 331 votes. A minimum of 288 were needed. President Emmanuel Macron insisted he will serve the rest of his term until 2027. However, he will need to appoint a new prime minister for the second time after July’s legislative elections led to a deeply divided parliament. Macron will address the French on Thursday evening, his office said, without providing details. Barnier is expected to formally resign by then. A conservative appointed in September, Barnier becomes the shortest-serving prime minister in France’s modern Republic. ___ White House says at least 8 US telecom firms, dozens of nations impacted by China hacking campaign WASHINGTON (AP) — A top White House official on Wednesday said at least eight U.S. telecom firms and dozens of nations have been impacted by a Chinese hacking campaign. Deputy national security adviser Anne Neuberger offered new details about the breadth of the sprawling Chinese hacking campaign that gave officials in Beijing access to private texts and phone conversations of an unknown number of Americans. Neuberger divulged the scope of the hack a day after the FBI and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency issued guidance intended to help root out the hackers and prevent similar cyberespionage in the future. White House officials cautioned that the number of telecommunication firms and countries impacted could still grow. The U.S. believes that the hackers were able to gain access to communications of senior U.S. government officials and prominent political figures through the hack, Neuberger said. “We don’t believe any classified communications has been compromised,” Neuberger added during a call with reporters. ___ Harris found success with women who have cats, but Trump got the dog owner vote: AP VoteCast WASHINGTON (AP) — The lead-up to the 2024 election was all about cat owners. But in the end, the dogs had their day. President-elect Donald Trump won slightly more than half of voters who own either cats or dogs, with a big assist from dog owners, according to AP VoteCast, a survey of more than 120,000 voters. Dog owners were much more likely to support the Republican over Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris. Cat owners were split between the two candidates. About two-thirds of voters said they own a dog or cat, but pet owners don't usually get much attention from politicians. This year, however, past comments by Trump's running mate, Ohio Sen. JD Vance, about “childless cat ladies” briefly became a campaign issue — and Taylor Swift signed her Instagram endorsement of Harris in September as “Taylor Swift Childless Cat Lady.” Harris did end up decisively winning support from women who owned a cat but not a dog. Still, those voters were a relatively small slice of the electorate, and pet owners as a whole did not seem to hold Vance's remarks against the GOP ticket. Childless or not, women who only owned a cat were more likely to support Harris than were dog owners, or voters who had a cat and a dog. About 6 in 10 women who owned a cat but not a dog supported Harris, according to AP VoteCast. She did similarly well among women who did not own either kind of pet. The Associated Press

Once again, the last column of December (or the first of the next year, depending on how the dates line up) is a final look backward at the past year’s legal tomfoolery, monkeyshines, hijinks, and shenanigans. (Okay, I’m out of synonyms for “mischief.”) And so, once again: • Some years ago, the late Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia was confronted by a reporter as he left church one Sunday. Scalia responded to the reporter’s question by flicking the four fingers of his hand under his chin. The gesture was apparently Scalia’s “commentary” that someone — even a reporter – shouold not have had the temerity to approach him while he was, um, off-duty. Scalia later claimed that it was simply a gesture of dismissal because he didn’t like being “ambushed” that way. On the other hand, the Boston Herald claimed that it was an “obscene gesture.” That’s the problem with gestures; they can all be interpreted so many different ways. But the State of Hawaii decided to wade into the field of nonverbal communication this past June, when its governor signed legislation making the “shaka” Hawaii’s “Official State Gesture.” The gesture is defined in the legislation as “. . . extending the thumb and smallest finger while holding the three middle fingers curled, and gesturing in salutation while presenting the front or back of the hand; the wrist may be rotated back and forth for emphasis.” This comes in the wake of New Mexico having made “the fragrance of roasting green chilies” its “official state aroma” in 2023, and California adopting the Dungeness crab as the “official state crustacean,” in 2024. But hearkening back to Justice Scalia, I don’t recommend making the “shaka” gesture while visiting Italy, where it has a . . . somewhat different meaning. • A federal judge in Florida heard a motion for sanctions — that is, a fine against the attorneys and/or their client — for bringing a frivolous lawsuit against discount retailer Big Lots. A woman named Peggy Durant sued Big Lots under a Florida consumer protection law, claiming that she was unable to brew 210 cups of coffee from a given container of beans, despite what was claimed on its label. The judge first dismissed the case (in a ruling that should likely be its own column) because the facts of the case didn’t support the allegations of the lawsuit. He later granted the motion for sanctions because, among other things, the attorneys had apparently filed more or less the same lawsuit in New York, where it had also been dismissed. Then they refiled essentially the lawsuit in Florida with a new client. But not only was this case dismissed, too, the trial judge added the sanctions because he found they had acted in bad faith. Big Lots’ ringing victory was undermined somewhat, however, when it ended the year by filing Chapter 11 bankruptcy and closing most if not all of its stores. This apparently had nothing to do with being sued in frivolous lawsuits, however. • Remember the doctor who “appeared” for his traffic ticket via Zoom while dressed in scrubs and standing in an active operating room? Or the attorney who appeared in court via Zoom but looked like a cat because he couldn’t figure out how to turn off the filter that made him appear that way? Ain’t technology amazin’? Well, 2024 added to that lore with the well-publicized case of Michigan resident Corey Allen, who appeared in court while driving his car. He was just pulling into a parking space when he activated his Zoom link. But the judge noted that the appearance was itself for a “driving on a suspended license” citation. And Mr. Allen was clearly driving when he signed on to the court Zoom. Oops. The case then took an odd turn, however, because in later proceedings, Allen at first claimed that his suspended license case had been resolved, and that the citation was issued in error because the court failed to reinstate his driving privilege by updating its records timely. But then, during a later appearance, the judge stated that Mr. Allen could not have been driving “on” a suspended license — because he had actually never had a driver’s license (at least in Michigan). Ever. (Even if someone has never had a license, the court’s records will simply note that the person’s “privilege to drive” has been suspended, whether they’ve ever had a license or not.) Another “oops.” Because Allen was in court the second time when the second startling revelation was made, however, that time the judge ordered him into custody. Frank Zotter, Jr. is a Ukiah attorney.

Are Police Scanners Legal & How Do They Work? Here's What You Need To Know

Haitians massacred for practicing voodoo were abducted, hacked to death: UN