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Maxim Power Corp. ( TSE:MXG – Get Free Report ) reached a new 52-week high on Friday . The stock traded as high as C$5.40 and last traded at C$5.40, with a volume of 4027 shares trading hands. The stock had previously closed at C$5.30. Maxim Power Price Performance The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 26.05, a quick ratio of 4.35 and a current ratio of 4.44. The stock has a market capitalization of C$277.79 million, a P/E ratio of 11.93, a PEG ratio of -4.32 and a beta of 0.86. The firm has a fifty day moving average price of C$4.85 and a two-hundred day moving average price of C$4.26. Maxim Power ( TSE:MXG – Get Free Report ) last released its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, November 7th. The company reported C$0.18 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter. Maxim Power had a return on equity of 8.83% and a net margin of 28.02%. The business had revenue of C$25.66 million during the quarter. As a group, analysts expect that Maxim Power Corp. will post 0.0712303 EPS for the current fiscal year. About Maxim Power Maxim Power Corp., an independent power producer, acquires or develops, owns, and operates power and power related projects in Alberta, Canada. It operates Milner power plant, a 300 MW combined cycle gas-fired power plant located in Grande Cache, Alberta. The company was founded in 2010 and is headquartered in Calgary, Canada. Further Reading Receive News & Ratings for Maxim Power Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Maxim Power and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter .
DETROIT – The Detroit Red Wings know of Todd McLellan, a longtime NHL coach, but most don’t really know him. They’ll have plenty of time to get acquainted as the season progresses. But their new coach made an unmistakable first impression Friday during a team meeting and 20-minute practice prior to tonight’s game against Toronto. “I think you can definitely feel his presence; he has a presence when he’s in the room,” Patrick Kane said. “The way he speaks, just his voice, his voice on the ice, he seems like he’s going to be a coach that’s demanding, and I think that’s a good thing for our group. Demand more from us and then hopefully we can put out more for him, too.” They have much more to give following a 13-17-4 start that got Derek Lalonde fired on Thursday. “It’s been a frustrating start to the season and obviously our last performance (4-0 loss to St. Louis Monday), last week two games against Montreal,” Dylan Larkin said. “We’re missing something and ultimately Steve (general manager Yzerman) made the decision. I really like Derek and (assistant coach Bob Boughner, also fired) as guys. They’re really good people and you never want to see that. Especially the time that it happened was a little awkward but felt like something needed to happen. “And now we move forward, and we had a great first day with Todd. Right when it happened, it was difficult to see, but we moved forward and hopefully continue to look at the big picture and develop this further.” Kane speaks from experience when he said a coaching change can give a team an immediate boost. “I guess everyone has a clean slate, like he said in our meeting this morning,” Kane said. “You try to have a good first impression on the coach and he’s not making it too complicated for us. Try to keep it simple for us. Just go out and play and bring the spirit, bring the heart, play faster, play with some life and hopefully it’ll turn out well for us.” Larkin said players ultimately are responsible for the team’s struggles but believes McLellan can help them recapture their spirit. “That’s something that we’ve been lacking and something that as a player, when you go out there and you don’t have it for whatever reason -- like the last week and multiple times throughout this season – it’s not the way I want to play,” Larkin said. “Whatever happens the rest of the way this season, we need to build the team spirit and the competitiveness back in our locker room.” Moritz Seider described a mix of nervousness and excitement as he drove to the rink. “I think we’re all good hockey players. We just need maybe a different approach or something and maybe he hit the triggers already,” Seider said. “And I think we’re going to be a team that’s playing with a lot of heart, a lot of character and a lot of spirit tonight. We’re going to be a good hockey team for a full 60 minutes, and that’s, I think, most important. That was his message, and I think everyone’s believing in it.” #RedWings Todd McLellan running his first practice at the morning skate. pic.twitter.com/PHkXsXagpMFor the second time in ten months, former Bears kicker Robbie Gould was introduced as the new head football coach at an area high school. Gould resigned from Rolling Meadows on Dec. 3 and was hired by St. Viator, the Catholic high school four miles northeast, on Dec. 10. The school held a news conference to introduce him on Thursday. “I’m truly honored to be in this position,” Gould said. “I want to thank everyone involved in this hiring process. It was thorough and thoughtful, and it made it clear that St. Viator is a place where core values and hard work are prioritized. This is a school that places an emphasis on education, character development and service — values I personally believe in and that I see reflected in this football program.” St. Viator was 4-5 this fall, losing five of its last six games, and didn’t make the playoffs. Coach David Archibald then resigned. The Lions’ starting quarterback this year was senior Cooper Kmet, the younger brother of Bears tight end Cole Kmet. And there’s another significant connection to the Bears — Hall of Fame running back Walter Payton’s son, Jarrett, attended St. Viator. Gould guided Rolling Meadows to the playoffs in his one season, improving them from two victories to five. His move to the Catholic League comes at a time of heightened attention around the public school vs. private school debate. Gould emphasized St. Viator’s facilities in his comments Thursday. “The strength and conditioning program here is outstanding, and it’s a critical part of developing our athletes,” he said. “But it’s not just about physical strength. This program is about developing mental toughness, perseverance and teamwork. These core values will be the foundation of our football team moving forward.” A few other ex-Bears are coaching high school football in the area. Former safety Tom Nelson is at Hersey, former fullback Jason McKie is at Carmel, and former running back Jordan Lynch is at Mount Carmel. “As a former Penn State Nittany Lion, I understand the importance of tradition, and the alumni here are incredibly supportive,” Gould said. “I look forward to building a strong community of former players and supporters who will continue to help shape this program for years to come.”
No. 5 UCLA stuns No. South Carolina, ends 43-game streakTrump offers support for dockworkers union by saying ports shouldn’t install more automated systems
While many premium cuts of meat, such as filet mignon or ribeye, are naturally tender, others can benefit from tenderizing. As a rule of thumb, the texture of a cut of meat depends on its origin, as well as the age and activity level of the animal. Because the neck, chest, shoulders, and front limbs usually get a workout, these tend to be tougher than other parts of the animal. A few of the more challenging cuts of meat to cook include chuck, brisket, flank, bottom round, and tri-top from beef, as well as lamb and pork legs and shoulders. Similarly, chicken and turkey legs are usually tougher than chicken and turkey breast meat. Budget-friendly meat tends to have more connective tissue and muscle fibers — this is precisely what makes it tougher but also flavorful if prepared in the right way. This is where different methods of tenderizing the meat can be a game changer. Techniques like braising, marinating, and mechanical tenderizing, which involves physically tearing through the connective tissue, can transform these tougher cuts into succulent treats. Ready to find out how to get the most out of tough cuts of meat? Take a look at these tried-and-true tenderizing methods. Pound the meat with a meat mallet One of the simplest — and most common — ways to tenderize tough meat is by breaking down its muscle fibers. This is often done with a meat mallet, a hammer-like kitchen utensil with two sides: a smooth side designed for or veal cutlets and a spiky side for tenderizing meat. In a pinch, you can also achieve a similar effect by whacking the meat with a heavy skillet, a rolling pin, or even a wine bottle. Of course, using anything other than a specialized meat mallet to tenderize meat may require a little more effort and take longer. To pound the meat, place it on a cutting board or another flat surface. Next, cover it with plastic wrap or wax paper and pound it with the spiky side of the mallet. It's best to begin at the center of the cut and move outward. While beating meat into submission can improve its texture, it's also important not to overdo the job. Excessive pressure can pulverize the meat, turning it mushy and unappetizing. Poke the meat with a fork or a needle tenderizer The method of piercing a cut of meat with a fork might just be the fastest way to tenderize a steak. All you need is a fork or another sharp object and a few seconds to puncture holes on both sides of the cut. While the piercing method is similar to tenderizing meat with a meat mallet, as both are mechanical, a fork can penetrate the meat deeper than the coarse surface of a mallet. This doesn't just improve the meat's texture by breaking down its connective tissue, but also opens the meat up, allowing marinades to penetrate deeper into the meat. Poking holes in a cut of meat with a fork is relatively simple, but you can go one better by investing in a needle tenderizer, such as the . The handy tool is equipped with dozens of ultra sharp needles that penetrate the meat, creating channels. To use a needle tenderizer, simply place the meat on an even surface, grip the handle, and press firmly down. Sprinkle the meat with baking soda It's difficult to imagine that sprinkling a little baking soda on a cut of meat could turn it from tough and leathery to soft and tender. While the effect is likely to be more subtle than this, when applied correctly, baking soda can improve the texture and juiciness of tougher cuts of meat, making them easier to chew and more enjoyable to eat. The technique of tenderizing meat with baking soda relies on raising the pH levels on the surface of the meat. A higher pH level prevents the proteins in the meat from forming strong bonds while it's being cooked, ensuring a juicier and more tender final result. Since the baking soda won't penetrate deeply into the meat, it's best to use this method on cuts no thicker than 1⁄2 inch. For this method, cover the meat in baking soda, using a quantity equal to 1% of the protein's weight. Place the meat in the refrigerator for at least three hours. For bigger cuts, you may wish to leave it in the refrigerator overnight. Once ready, remove the baking soda by rinsing the meat thoroughly under running water. If time is of the essence, you can also use baking soda to make a wet brine, mixing 1 tablespoon of baking soda with 1⁄2 cup of water per 12 ounces of protein. Depending on its size, the meat will need to marinate in the mixture for at least 15 minutes. Use a marinade Marinades don't just imbue meat with flavor, they also tenderize it. More specifically, they break down tough connective tissues in and help pork loin or chicken breast stay moist, especially when grilled. Most marinades consist of three key elements: oil, seasoning, and either an acid or an enzyme. All of these ingredients perform different functions. The seasoning infuses the meat with flavor, the oil helps to carry the flavor and keeps the meat moist, while the acid and enzymes tenderize the meat. Both acids and enzymes tenderize meat by breaking down its proteins, particularly collagen and muscle fibers, which can make meat tough. Some of the acidic ingredients that are often incorporated in marinades include citrus fruit, vinegar, buttermilk, and, perhaps surprisingly to some, yogurt and soda. Similarly, enzymes in fruits like mangoes, kiwis, pineapples, and papaya can also effectively break down the connective tissue in meat. To tenderize meat without turning it to mush, pay close attention to marinating time. It goes without saying that larger and tougher cuts, such as brisket or , should be marinated for longer than thinner and smaller pieces of meat. For instance, while thicker cuts of meat can be kept in the marinade for up to 12 hours, thinner or more delicate cuts may require as little as 30 minutes. Sprinkle the meat with a little salt Salt has been used as a meat preservative for thousands of years. Ancient civilizations used salt to brine meat, which helped prolong its shelf life by drawing out moisture and inhibiting bacteria. While refrigeration has simplified meat storage, salt is still sometimes used on meat as a natural tenderizer. Dry brining, or sprinkling tougher cuts of meat with salt, can break down the proteins in the muscle fibers, giving it a softer texture. Salt can be used on a range of meats, including beef, pork, and even chicken. In fact, salt brine can also be used to . For best results, use around 1⁄2 teaspoon of salt per each pound of meat. Coat the cut of meat in the salt, ensuring that it's completely covered. Salt the meat at least an hour before cooking. For larger pieces of protein like whole turkeys or pork butts, you can even salt a day or two in advance — just make sure that you pop them back in the refrigerator after applying the salt. Finally, be sure to rinse the meat under running water and pat it dry before cooking. Score the meat with a knife Alongside from pounding meat with a mallet and piercing it with a fork, scoring — or cutting protein with a knife — is another popular method of tenderizing tough cuts like hanger steak or flank. The method is very simple — all you need is a sharp knife. Begin by cutting the meat in one direction before making cuts in the opposite direction until you end up with a crosshatch pattern on the meat's surface. Don't cut too deeply as this could affect the meat's overall structure. The purpose of scoring is breaking up the long muscle fibers in the meat, resulting in a softer, more tender texture. Scoring also increases the meat's cooking surface, promoting more even cooking and triggering the , a chemical process that gives meat a beautiful brown crust. Making cuts in the meat can also help it to soak up marinades, if that is a part of its preparation process. Alternatively, you can imbue the meat with flavor by filling the slits with diced aromatics like ginger or garlic or filling them with seasoning. Use a meat tenderizing powder While you can tenderize meat by coating it in salt or baking powder, there is another culinary product that can help to soften protein. We are talking about , such as the . Available online and in stores, meat tenderizing powder contains enzymes, such as bromelain found in pineapples or papain derived from papayas, that help break down the muscle fibers in the meat, making it more tender and juicy. This said, meat tenderizing powder works best on thinner cuts of meat like steaks or chops as it doesn't penetrate the meat deeper than 1⁄4 inches. While some meat tenderizing powders are unseasoned, others come with herbs and spices that can enhance the flavor of the meat. The product takes as little as 20 minutes to work, so can be a great option for those on a tight culinary schedule. Meat tenderizing powder is best used as a dry rub, rather than a marinade, as explained by one : "If you leave [the] tenderizer on for a long period of time it can turn the meat unpleasantly mushy. So, marinate, then tenderizer." Infuse the meat with alcohol It's no secret that adding a splash of liquor, wine, or beer to some culinary creations can enhance their flavor, texture, and aroma. Take , for example, where the liquor adds complexity to the tomato sauce, or , which is infused with the complex flavor of red wine. With so much culinary versatility, it's no surprise that many home chefs also add a little alcohol to their more meaty dishes. . Firstly, it helps to tenderize dishes by weakening tough fibers in the protein, creating a more succulent final product. Alcohol can also imbue meat with flavor, with beers giving protein caramel undertones and wines vibrant floral accents. This said, it's important not to let the boozy flavors overshadow the other components of the marinade. As a rule of thumb, if you don't want to infuse your meat with a distinct boozy flavor, opt for a neutral-tasting spirit like vodka. Slow cook the meat Transforming tough cuts of meat like , lamb shank, or pork shoulder into tender, mouthwatering meals can take a lot of patience. Fortitude is precisely what you will need if you opt to tenderize these cuts using traditional slow-cooking methods like braising or roasting. On the bright side, cooking protein low and slow breaks down the collagen in the meat, separating the muscle fiber. This, in turn, results in tender and flavorful shreds of meat. When it comes to slow cooking meat, there are several alternatives. Whether on a stovetop or grill, braising involves simmering meat in a liquid for long periods of time. Since the meat is cooked on low heat with liquid, it remains nice and juicy. If you are barbecuing meat, you can cover it with foil to keep the protein from drying out during the cooking process. Preparing meat on low heat also ensures uniform cooking, eliminating the risk that you will end up with an overcooked outer and a pink center. To brown the meat, pre-sear it or sear it once it's cooked. Cook the meat in a slow cooker or a pressure cooker Slow cookers offer a less hands-on way of achieving the same tender, flavorful results as braising or slow-roasting. Whether you are preparing or a hearty stew, a slow cooker can both tenderize the meat and lock in moisture. The trick lies in filling the cooker with the right amount of liquid — be it water, stock, or wine. You should also avoid lifting the lid during the cooking process to prevent any moisture from evaporating. If you are cooking a beef stew, for instance, the liquid should fill the slow cooker enough to cover about one-third of the meat. This will ensure that the meat braises, rather than boils. Pressure cookers can also be used to tenderize meat, albeit in a completely different way from slow cookers. Unlike slow cookers, which rely on low heat over long periods to tenderize meat, pressure cookers use high pressure to rapidly raise the cooking temperature, breaking down collagen into gelatin and softening the meat. Best of all, the meat will be ready in a fraction of the time it would take in a slow cooker. Let the meat rest after cooking Once the cut of meat is cooked, it's important to resist the urge to serve it right away. This is because letting the meat rest can go a long way to enhancing its flavor, texture, and juiciness. To get the lowdown on resting times, . "Steaks as a general rule need to rest for at least a third of their cook time. If it's a small steak like a filet I'll usually rest it for a minimum of five minutes," he says. "The larger the steak and longer the cooking time, the longer the steak needs to rest. If you are roasting a prime rib, a 30 to 45 minute rest is not out of the question." So what's the benefit of resting meat? As meat cooks, the heat draws the juices toward the surface. Letting the protein rest allows the juices to be redistributed evenly into the meat, preventing them from spilling out when the protein is cut open. In addition, leaving meat on the counter for a few minutes lets the muscle fibers reabsorb these juices, making the steak more tender. Finally, a few minutes of resting time ensures that the steak finishes cooking using residual heat. Slice the meat against the grain Since it's the tough muscle fibers that make meat chewy, it makes sense that severing them after the meat has been prepared will make the cut more tender. Of course, this only applies if you know what you are doing. Slicing the meat with the grain, or parallel to the fibers, will leave them intact, keeping the meat just as tough as when it was first cooked. To tenderize meat, you should always slice it across the grain to shorten the muscle fibers and make the cut less chewy. While shortening the muscle fibers by is likely to make it easier to chew, it's not going to change the overall quality of the meat. Perhaps one sums this up best, saying, "[This technique] doesn't make an actual change in the meat, it just presents the grain to your chompers differently. Easier to split wood along the grain, same with chewing steak." Use a meat tenderizing gadget Fast and efficient, electric meat tenderizers, such as the , are a great alternative for those who are processing large batches of meat or don't have a lot of muscle strength. Fitted out with electric motors, these gadgets can transform tough meat within seconds without any effort on your part. To be more specific, the motor powers a stainless steel blade that rotates rapidly, breaking down the muscle fibers and connective tissues in the meat as it passes through the machine. Those who don't need to process large quantities of tough meat can opt for a manual meat tenderizer that works on a similar principle to its electric counterpart but requires hand power to operate. Gadgets like the feature crank handles that power a set of blades to tenderize the meat. While manual meat tenderizers may require a little more effort than their electric siblings, they tend to be more compact and budget-friendly. Recommended
Jimmy Carter, the 39th US president, has died at 100
By JOSH BOAK WASHINGTON (AP) — President-elect Donald Trump on Thursday voiced his support for the dockworkers union before their contract expires next month at Eastern and Gulf Coast ports, saying that any further “automation” of the ports would harm workers. Related Articles National Politics | Will Kamala Harris run for California governor in 2026? The question is already swirling National Politics | Biden says healthy women help US prosperity as he highlights White House initiative on their health National Politics | Trump taps immigration hard-liner Kari Lake as head of Voice of America National Politics | Trump extends unprecedented invites to China’s Xi and other world leaders for his inauguration National Politics | Pressure on a veteran and senator shows what’s next for those who oppose Trump The incoming president posted on social media that he met Harold Daggett, the president of the International Longshoreman’s Association, and Dennis Daggett, the union’s executive vice president. “I’ve studied automation, and know just about everything there is to know about it,” Trump posted. “The amount of money saved is nowhere near the distress, hurt, and harm it causes for American Workers, in this case, our Longshoremen. Foreign companies have made a fortune in the U.S. by giving them access to our markets. They shouldn’t be looking for every last penny knowing how many families are hurt.” The International Longshoremen’s Association has until Jan. 15 to negotiate a new contract with the U.S. Maritime Alliance, which represents ports and shipping companies. At the heart of the dispute is whether ports can install automated gates, cranes and container-moving trucks that could make it faster to unload and load ships. The union argues that automation would lead to fewer jobs, even though higher levels of productivity could do more to boost the salaries of remaining workers. The Maritime Alliance said in a statement that the contract goes beyond ports to “supporting American consumers and giving American businesses access to the global marketplace – from farmers, to manufacturers, to small businesses, and innovative start-ups looking for new markets to sell their products.” “To achieve this, we need modern technology that is proven to improve worker safety, boost port efficiency, increase port capacity, and strengthen our supply chains,” said the alliance, adding that it looks forward to working with Trump. In October, the union representing 45,000 dockworkers went on strike for three days, raising the risk that a prolonged shutdown could push up inflation by making it difficult to unload container ships and export American products overseas. The issue pits an incoming president who won November’s election on the promise of bringing down prices against commitments to support blue-collar workers along with the kinds of advanced technology that drew him support from Silicon Valley elite such as billionaire Elon Musk. Trump sought to portray the dispute as being between U.S. workers and foreign companies, but advanced ports are also key for staying globally competitive. China is opening a $1.3 billion port in Peru that could accommodate ships too large for the Panama Canal. There is a risk that shippers could move to other ports, which could also lead to job losses. Mexico is constructing a port that is highly automated, while Dubai, Singapore and Rotterdam already have more advanced ports. Instead, Trump said that ports and shipping companies should eschew “machinery, which is expensive, and which will constantly have to be replaced.” “For the great privilege of accessing our markets, these foreign companies should hire our incredible American Workers, instead of laying them off, and sending those profits back to foreign countries,” Trump posted. “It is time to put AMERICA FIRST!”Feeling the Christmas burnout? How to complete Dry January in 7 simple steps
Ancient meets modern as a new subway in Greece showcases archaeological treasures THESSALONIKI, Greece (AP) — Thessaloniki, Greece’s second-largest city, is opening a new subway system, blending ancient archaeological treasures with modern transit technology like driverless trains and platform screen doors. The project, which began in 2003, uncovered over 300,000 artifacts, including a Roman-era thoroughfare and Byzantine relics, many of which are now displayed in its 13 stations. Despite delays caused by preserving these findings, the inaugural line has been completed, with a second line set to open next year. Conor McGregor must pay $250K to woman who says he raped her, civil jury rules LONDON (AP) — A civil jury in Ireland has awarded more than $250,000 to a woman who says she was raped by mixed martial arts fighter Conor McGregor in a Dublin hotel penthouse after a night of heavy partying. The jury on Friday awarded Nikita Hand in her lawsuit that claimed McGregor “brutally raped and battered” her in 2018. The lawsuit says the assault left her heavily bruised and suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder. McGregor testified that he never forced her to do anything and that Hand fabricated her allegations after the two had consensual sex. McGregor says he will appeal the verdict. At least 15 people are sick in Minnesota from ground beef tied to E. coli recall U.S. health officials say at least 15 people in Minnesota have been sickened by E. coli poisoning tied to a national recall of more than 160,000 pounds of potentially tainted ground beef. Detroit-based Wolverine Packing Co. recalled the meat this week after Minnesota state agriculture officials reported multiple illnesses and found that a sample of the product tested positive for E. coli O157:H7, which can cause life-threatening infections. Symptoms of E. coli poisoning include fever, vomiting, diarrhea and signs of dehydration. Kendrick Lamar surprises with new album 'GNX' LOS ANGELES (AP) — Kendrick Lamar gave music listeners an early holiday present with a new album. The Grammy winner released his sixth studio album “GNX” on Friday. The 12-track project is the rapper’s first release since 2022’s “Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers.” Lamar’s new album comes just months after his rap battle with Drake. The rap megastar will headline February's Apple Music Super Bowl Halftime Show in New Orleans. The 37-year-old has experienced massive success since his debut album “good kid, m.A.A.d city” in 2012. Since then, he’s accumulated 17 Grammy wins and became the first non-classical, non-jazz musician to win a Pulitzer Prize. Actor Jonathan Majors’ ex-girlfriend drops assault and defamation lawsuit against once-rising star NEW YORK (AP) — Jonathan Majors’ ex-girlfriend has dropped her assault and defamation lawsuit against the once-rising Hollywood star after reaching a settlement. Lawyers for Majors and Grace Jabbari agreed to dismiss the case with prejudice Thursday. Jabbari is a British dancer who had accused Majors of subjecting her to escalating incidents of physical and verbal abuse during their relationship. Representatives for Majors didn’t respond to emails seeking comment Friday. Jabbari’s lawyer said the suit was “favorably settled” and her client is moving on with “her head held high.” Majors was convicted of misdemeanor assault and harassment last December and sentenced to a yearlong counseling program. Hyundai, Kia recall over 208,000 electric vehicles to fix problem that can cause loss of power DETROIT (AP) — Hyundai and Kia are recalling over 208,000 electric vehicles to fix a pesky problem that can cause loss of drive power, increasing the risk of a crash. The recalls cover more than 145,000 Hyundai and Genesis vehicles including the 2022 through 2024 Ioniq 5, the 2023 through 2025 Ioniq 6, GV60 and GV70, and the 2023 and 2024 G80. Also included are nearly 63,000 Kia EV 6 vehicles from 2022 through 2024. The affiliated Korean automakers say in government documents that a transistor in a charging control unit can be damaged and stop charging the 12-volt battery. Dealers will inspect and replace the control unit and a fuse if needed. They also will update software. Christmas TV movies are in their Taylor Swift era, with two Swift-inspired films airing this year Two of the new holiday movies coming to TV this season have a Taylor Swift connection that her fans would have no problem decoding. “Christmas in the Spotlight” debuts Saturday on Lifetime. It stars Jessica Lord as the world’s biggest pop star and Laith Wallschleger, playing a pro football player, who meet and fall in love, not unlike Swift and her boyfriend, Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce. On Nov. 30, Hallmark will air “Holiday Touchdown: A Chiefs Love Story.” Instead of a nod to Swift, it’s an ode to family traditions and bonding, like rooting for a sports team. Hallmark’s headquarters is also in Kansas City. Top football recruit Bryce Underwood changes commitment to Michigan instead of LSU, AP source says ANN ARBOR, Mich. (AP) — Top football recruit Bryce Underwood has flipped to Michigan after pledging to play at LSU. That's according to a person familiar with the situation who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to share the recruit’s plans to join the Wolverines. Underwood pinned a post on his Instagram account, showing a post in which On3.com reported that he has committed to Michigan. The 6-foot-3 quarterback played at Belleville High School about 15 miles east of Michigan's campus, and told LSU nearly a year ago he intended to enroll there. Emperor penguin released at sea 20 days after waddling onto Australian beach MELBOURNE, Australia (AP) — The only emperor penguin known to have swum from Antarctica to Australia has been released at sea 20 days after he waddled ashore on a popular tourist beach. The adult male was found on Nov. 1 on sand dunes in temperate southwest Australia about 2,200 miles north of the Antarctic coast. He was released Wednesday from a boat that traveled several hours from Western Australia state's most southerly city of Albany. His caregiver Carol Biddulph wasn't sure at first if the penguin would live. She said a mirror was important to his rehabilitation because they provide a sense of company. Biddulph said: “They’re social birds and he stands next to the mirror most of the time.” Shohei Ohtani wins third MVP award, first in NL. Aaron Judge earns second AL honor in 3 seasons NEW YORK (AP) — Shohei Ohtani won his third Most Valuable Player Award and first in the National League, and Aaron Judge earned his second American League honor on Thursday. Ohtani was a unanimous MVP for the third time, receiving all 30 first-place votes and 420 points in voting by the Baseball Writers’ Association of America. New York Mets shortstop Francisco Lindor was second with 263 points and Arizona second baseman Ketel Marte third with 229. Judge was a unanimous pick for the first time. Kansas City shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. got all 30 second-place votes for 270 points, and Yankees outfielder Juan Soto was third with 21 third-place votes and 229 points.
When the Great Recession struck California 17 years ago and hundreds of thousands of workers lost their jobs, the state’s unemployment insurance system crashed. The employer-financed program quickly exhausted its thin reserves, due to a short-sighted political decision six years earlier. In 2001, the Unemployment Insurance Fund had a $6.5 billion positive balance. But the governor at the time, Democrat Gray Davis, owed big political debts to unions that financed his 1998 campaign. He repaid them by doubling unemployment insurance benefits, contending that the seemingly hefty reserve could cover them without raising payroll taxes on employers. When recession struck, the insurance fund soon leaked red ink and the state borrowed about $10 billion from the federal government to maintain cash payments. When the state didn’t repay the loan, the feds raised payroll taxes for nearly a decade to retire the loan. It should have been a lesson for political policymakers about instant gratification and financial responsibility, but it wasn’t. Shortly after the $10 billion loan was paid off, California was hammered by the COVID-19 pandemic, and upwards of 3 million workers lost their jobs as the state ordered workplace closures. Once again, the unemployment insurance program had virtually no reserves to cover the sharp increase in claims. Once again it borrowed from the federal government, this time for $20 billion, and once again its failure to repay forced the feds to increase payroll taxes. In addition to a double dose of financial problems, the Employment Development Department has also experienced managerial failures. In 2011 Elaine Howle, the state auditor, laid out the department’s shortcomings in a sharply worded report, but when the pandemic hit, they once again became evident. There were massive glitches in responding to legitimate claims for insurance benefits, while the department gave tens of billions of dollars to fraudsters. Meanwhile employers are still repaying the last loan, and the state’s insurance fund is continuing to run deficits, unable to cover current benefits of nearly $7 billion a year. With that history in mind, another watchdog agency, the Legislative Analyst’s Office, is urging a complete overhaul of unemployment insurance, declaring the system “is broken.” Noting that the current state payroll tax cannot fully cover current benefits, much less build reserves, the LAO report projects a “perpetually outstanding federal loan” to keep payments flowing that must be repaid with interest. The report proposes a four-part tough love approach to a crisis that has been building for more than two decades and cannot solve itself, to wit it advises the state to: There may be other alternatives, perhaps affecting benefits, but the main thing is that doing nothing will just perpetuate this crisis — even though the politics of the issue are daunting. It’s been a political stalemate for nearly a quarter-century, pitting unions seeking to protect, or even increase, benefits against employers who don’t want to shoulder increased taxes. Successive governors and legislative leaders have shunned engagement, preferring to kick the can down the road. Dan Walters is one of most decorated and widely syndicated columnists in California history, authoring a column four times a week that offers his view and analysis of the state’s political, economic, social and demographic trends.
By JOSH BOAK WASHINGTON (AP) — President-elect Donald Trump on Thursday voiced his support for the dockworkers union before their contract expires next month at Eastern and Gulf Coast ports, saying that any further “automation” of the ports would harm workers. Related Articles National Politics | Will Kamala Harris run for California governor in 2026? The question is already swirling National Politics | Watchdog finds FBI intelligence missteps before Jan. 6 riot, but no undercover agents were present National Politics | Senate begins final push to expand Social Security benefits for millions of people National Politics | Trump taps immigration hard-liner Kari Lake as head of Voice of America National Politics | Trump extends unprecedented invites to China’s Xi and other world leaders for his inauguration The incoming president posted on social media that he met Harold Daggett, the president of the International Longshoreman’s Association, and Dennis Daggett, the union’s executive vice president. “I’ve studied automation, and know just about everything there is to know about it,” Trump posted. “The amount of money saved is nowhere near the distress, hurt, and harm it causes for American Workers, in this case, our Longshoremen. Foreign companies have made a fortune in the U.S. by giving them access to our markets. They shouldn’t be looking for every last penny knowing how many families are hurt.” The International Longshoremen’s Association has until Jan. 15 to negotiate a new contract with the U.S. Maritime Alliance, which represents ports and shipping companies. At the heart of the dispute is whether ports can install automated gates, cranes and container-moving trucks that could make it faster to unload and load ships. The union argues that automation would lead to fewer jobs, even though higher levels of productivity could do more to boost the salaries of remaining workers. The Maritime Alliance said in a statement that the contract goes beyond ports to “supporting American consumers and giving American businesses access to the global marketplace – from farmers, to manufacturers, to small businesses, and innovative start-ups looking for new markets to sell their products.” “To achieve this, we need modern technology that is proven to improve worker safety, boost port efficiency, increase port capacity, and strengthen our supply chains,” said the alliance, adding that it looks forward to working with Trump. In October, the union representing 45,000 dockworkers went on strike for three days, raising the risk that a prolonged shutdown could push up inflation by making it difficult to unload container ships and export American products overseas. The issue pits an incoming president who won November’s election on the promise of bringing down prices against commitments to support blue-collar workers along with the kinds of advanced technology that drew him support from Silicon Valley elite such as billionaire Elon Musk. Trump sought to portray the dispute as being between U.S. workers and foreign companies, but advanced ports are also key for staying globally competitive. China is opening a $1.3 billion port in Peru that could accommodate ships too large for the Panama Canal. There is a risk that shippers could move to other ports, which could also lead to job losses. Mexico is constructing a port that is highly automated, while Dubai, Singapore and Rotterdam already have more advanced ports. Instead, Trump said that ports and shipping companies should eschew “machinery, which is expensive, and which will constantly have to be replaced.” “For the great privilege of accessing our markets, these foreign companies should hire our incredible American Workers, instead of laying them off, and sending those profits back to foreign countries,” Trump posted. “It is time to put AMERICA FIRST!”
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NoneIn a groundbreaking development in robotics, Figure AI has successfully delivered its advanced Figure 02 humanoid robots to their inaugural paying customer. This milestone marks a significant leap forward in the integration of humanoid robots into practical use. Figure AI’s Achievement The shipment of these robots highlights Figure AI’s pivotal role in advancing the robotics industry. By providing their humanoid solutions to commercial entities, Figure AI is setting the stage for widespread adoption of robotic assistance in various fields. Advanced Capabilities These state-of-the-art robots are equipped with sophisticated capabilities that allow them to perform tasks that were previously challenging for machines. Designed with cutting-edge technology, the humanoids can interact seamlessly with human environments, showcasing their potential to revolutionize the workplace. Impact on the Market This successful delivery represents not only a triumph for Figure AI but also signifies a growing trend towards the utilization of robots in everyday applications. As these robots enter the workforce, they are expected to enhance efficiency and productivity, offering a glimpse into the future of human-machine collaboration. Future Prospects With this initial deployment, the stage is set for further innovations and implementations. Figure AI’s groundbreaking move indicates an exciting era where humanoid robots could become a staple in industries around the globe, transforming how businesses operate and how tasks are approached. Figure AI’s achievement is a testament to the evolving capabilities of technology and its endless possibilities for enhancing modern life. Revolutionizing Robotics: Figure AI’s New Humanoid Robots are Here An Overview of Figure AI’s Humanoid Robots In an impressive stride within the robotics industry, Figure AI has introduced its advanced Figure 02 humanoid robots to a paying customer for the first time. This milestone is not only a testament to Figure AI’s pioneering work but also an indicator of the new era of humanoid robots poised to become integral in various sectors. Cutting-Edge Features and Specifications Figure 02 humanoid robots come equipped with highly sophisticated features that enable them to perform complex tasks traditionally handled by humans. With advanced sensors, AI-driven cognitive functions, and agile movement capabilities, these robots can seamlessly navigate and adapt to dynamic human environments. This innovation enhances their usability across multiple applications. Use Cases and Practical Applications The potential use cases for Figure 02 robots are vast, ranging from automating tasks in manufacturing and logistics to providing support in healthcare and customer service environments. Their ability to integrate into existing human workflows suggests a promising future for increased efficiency and productivity. Market Trends and Predictions The deployment of Figure 02 robots marks the beginning of an increasing trend towards robotics in daily operations. The global robotics market is predicted to experience significant growth, propelled by the demand for automation and AI-enhanced solutions. As industries seek to optimize operations, humanoid robots like those from Figure AI are expected to become more commonplace. Pros and Cons of Humanoid Robots # Pros: – Enhanced Efficiency : Robots can handle repetitive or dangerous tasks with precision, improving workplace safety and task efficiency. – Continuous Operation : Unlike humans, robots can work without breaks, maximizing productivity. – Flexible Deployment : With adaptive learning algorithms, robots can be updated for various tasks and environments. # Cons: – High Initial Investment : The technology and customization required can be expensive. – Integration Challenges : Adapting existing systems to work seamlessly with robots may present challenges. – Ethical Considerations : Increased automation raises questions about workforce displacement and job security. Future Innovations and Security Aspects Figure AI is committed to the continual advancement of robotic technology, aiming to enhance security alongside functionality. Ensuring that robots operate safely alongside humans involves ongoing improvements in AI ethics, data security, and operational safety protocols. Conclusion The successful deployment of Figure AI’s Figure 02 humanoid robots is a pivotal moment in the robotics industry, heralding a new era of innovation and integration. As these technologies evolve, they promise to redefine the capabilities of machines in society, offering improved workflows and productivity across sectors. For more information on robotics innovations, visit Figure AI .
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