FOXBOROUGH, Mass. (AP) — The New England Patriots are focused on the future following their 25-24 loss to the Indianapolis Colts. Read this article for free: Already have an account? To continue reading, please subscribe: * FOXBOROUGH, Mass. (AP) — The New England Patriots are focused on the future following their 25-24 loss to the Indianapolis Colts. Read unlimited articles for free today: Already have an account? FOXBOROUGH, Mass. (AP) — The New England Patriots are focused on the future following their 25-24 loss to the Indianapolis Colts. The Patriots (3-10) were officially eliminated from playoff contention with the loss Sunday, meaning that this week’s bye in many ways will begin the process of the coaching staff and front office evaluating the roster for 2025. The good news is that this group has shown plenty of grit this season, playing seven games that were decided by one score. The bad news is that the Patriots are just 2-5 in those games. Though New England’s bye comes late in the season, coach Jerod Mayo said the timing is perfect for a team that is feeling the effects of its shortcomings. “A much-needed bye week, not only physically for the players but also mentally, just being able to hit the reset button and come back, put some good games together and continue to build for the future,” Mayo said. “That has to be our goal.” Tight end Austin Hooper said the seed that needs to be planted over the final four games is finding a way to limit the mistakes — namely penalties and trouble finishing drives — that have hampered the offense throughout the season. “We’ve got to execute at a higher level. We can’t beat a team before you stop hurting yourself,” Hooper said. “It’s not for lack of effort, just things that happen out there that get you scars in this league.” What’s working This was the most balanced performance by the offense this season, with 222 passing yards and a season-high 200 yards rushing. It shows progress under new coordinator Alex Van Pelt, which is something to build on over the final four games. What needs help Red zone efficiency. It continues to be the most glaring deficiency for the Patriots’ offense. They were 2 of 6 on Sunday and rank 30th in the NFL, scoring a touchdown only 44.7% (17 of 38) of the time inside the 20-yard line. Stock up TE Hunter Henry. He finished with seven catches for 75 yards, which is his seventh game this season with five or more receptions. He leads the team this season with 58 catches for 610 yards and continues to be a dependable option for quarterback Drake May as he navigates his rookie season. Stock down K Joey Slye. He made 3 of his 5 field-goal attempts, including a 54-yarder in the second quarter. Most of the conversation following the game was about his NFL record-long 68-yard attempt that came up short as time expired. But because of the 1-point loss, he was lamenting the 25-yard attempt he missed wide left just before halftime. “I take full responsibility for this,” Slye said. “Every point for this team matters with how we play complementary football with offense, defense and special teams. So, whenever I am out there, I have got to score points.” Injuries Henry left the game in the first quarter after a helmet-to-helmet hit. He was able to return in the second quarter and finished the game. Key number Winnipeg Jets Game Days On Winnipeg Jets game days, hockey writers Mike McIntyre and Ken Wiebe send news, notes and quotes from the morning skate, as well as injury updates and lineup decisions. Arrives a few hours prior to puck drop. 7 — Number of penalties called on the Patriots, costing them 88 yards. Five penalties (four accepted) were called on the offensive line. That included one for holding on Mike Onwenu that nullified a touchdown run by Rhamondre Stevenson in the first quarter and forced New England to settle for a field goal. Next steps The Patriots have a bye this week. They visit the Arizona Cardinals on Dec. 15. ___ AP NFL coverage: https://apnews.com/hub/NFL Advertisement AdvertisementApple enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting the arrival of the MacBook Air powered by the new M4 chip, a highly anticipated addition to Apple’s lineup of laptops. After showcasing the power and efficiency of the M4 chips in the MacBook Pro and Mac Mini earlier this year, the Cupertino-based tech giant is expected to deliver a game-changing MacBook Air with the same cutting-edge technology . While Apple has not yet officially announced the launch date, reports from reliable sources suggest that this groundbreaking device could arrive sooner than expected, potentially before the release of the much-discussed iPhone SE 4 . Apple’s in-house M-series chips have revolutionized the tech industry, and the M4 chip is no exception. Known for its outstanding performance and energy efficiency, the M4 chip is expected to take the MacBook Air to new heights. The chip, based on advanced 3nm technology, promises faster processing speeds, improved graphics performance, and longer battery life. These enhancements make the M4 chip a significant upgrade over the M2 chip, which currently powers the latest MacBook Air models. The MacBook Pro and Mac Mini, which debuted earlier this year with M4 chips , have already set benchmarks in terms of performance and user experience. The addition of the M4 chip to the MacBook Air is likely to make it the most powerful Air model yet, appealing to professionals, students, and casual users alike. Renowned Apple analyst Mark Gurman, who frequently shares insights into Apple’s plans through his Bloomberg columns, has hinted that the MacBook Air with M4 chip may be launched before the iPhone SE 4 . This timeline, if accurate, could position the M4-powered MacBook Air as one of the most significant Apple releases in early 2024. Traditionally, Apple unveils new products in March or April, which aligns with Gurman’s prediction. However, Apple’s tight-lipped approach to product launches means the exact date remains uncertain. What’s clear, though, is that the M4 MacBook Air is one of Apple’s most anticipated devices, and its earlier-than-expected launch could steal the spotlight from the iPhone SE 4. While Apple has not officially disclosed the specifications of the M4 MacBook Air, leaks and speculations point to several exciting features. Here’s what we can expect: Also Read | Apple leads global tablet shipments in Q3 with 31.7 pc market share The launch of the M4 MacBook Air could have a ripple effect on Apple’s entire product lineup. By introducing an entry-level laptop with cutting-edge performance, Apple is likely to attract a broader audience. The device’s early release might also influence the timeline for other Apple products, including the iPhone SE 4 and future M4-powered devices. Moreover, the MacBook Air’s competitive pricing could challenge rival laptops in the market, cementing Apple’s dominance in the premium laptop segment. The MacBook Air has long been a favorite among Apple users, thanks to its perfect blend of performance, portability, and affordability. With the M4 chip, the MacBook Air is expected to raise the bar, offering users an even more powerful yet energy-efficient device. As the demand for high-performance laptops continues to grow, the M4 MacBook Air could become a game-changer for professionals, students, and anyone seeking a reliable laptop for work, study, or entertainment. While Apple has yet to confirm the launch of the M4 MacBook Air, all signs point to an imminent release. If it arrives before the iPhone SE 4, as predicted by Mark Gurman, the M4 MacBook Air could dominate headlines and redefine what users expect from an entry-level laptop. Stay tuned for updates as more details about the M4 MacBook Air emerge. With its impressive performance, sleek design, and potential early launch, the M4 MacBook Air promises to be one of Apple’s most exciting releases in 2024.
A Delaware judge has once again slapped down Elon Musk's pay package from Tesla. "The large and talented group of defense firms got creative with the ratification argument, but their unprecedented theories go against multiple strains of settled law," a Monday from Delaware Chancellor Kathaleen St. J. McCormick reads. In her ruling, McCormick stuck to her earlier finding that Tesla's board was unduly influenced by Musk when it came to creating his compensation package — which at the time was the to be awarded to a CEO. McCormick ruled that Musk and Tesla's board members and executives had no procedural grounds to change the outcome of her original determination "based on evidence they created after trial." She also found that the arguments used to challenge her initial ruling were not valid and weren't raised in a timely manner, and ordered Tesla to pay the plaintiffs $345 million, which the judge ordered Tesla may choose to pay in freely tradeable stock. Stock for the automaker dipped nearly 1.5% in after-hours trading following the news. Representatives for Tesla did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Business Insider. Tesla investors voted to for the second time in June. Tesla shareholders had originally voted in favor of the compensation plan in 2018, but McCormick ruled to void the agreement in January after a Tesla shareholder alleging the agreement was "beyond the bounds of reasonable judgment." At the time, McCormick said Musk had too much power over the agreement due to his close relationships with board members and the ties led to an "unfair price." In her earlier ruling, she said Tesla had failed to make sure investors were fully informed regarding the proposal. When the compensation package was voided, it was estimated to be worth about . "Contrary to how some have read the Post-Trial Opinion, the court did not find that the Board should have paid Musk nothing," McCormick wrote in her Monday filing. "There were undoubtedly a range of healthy amounts that the Board could have decided to pay Musk. Instead, the Board capitulated to Musk's terms and then failed to prove that those terms were entirely fair." In the months that followed the judge's original ruling, for Musk's pay and eventually came away with approval from over 70% of the voting shares. The company then presented the vote to McCormick, arguing that the shareholder ratification had addressed her concerns. However, McCormick in her latest ruling, wrote: "Even if a stockholder vote could have a ratifying effect, it could not do so here." Read the original article on
VANCOUVER — The first commercial batch of made-in-Canada low-carbon aviation fuel sourced from non-food grade canola and tallow has been produced and quickly purchased. Fuel retailer Parkland Corp. said Tuesday it has successfully produced about 100,000 litres of the fuel at its refinery in Burnaby, B.C. “using existing infrastructure.” Parkland senior vice-president Ferio Pugliese said it means production can easily be scaled up, but only if Canada provides the necessary conditions to create an ecosystem around the nascent commodity and its adoption across the country. “We need to do more to make low-carbon air travel a reality,” Pugliese said during the announcement in Vancouver on Tuesday. “We need a long-term Canadian solution for low-carbon, sustainable aviation fuel.” While the potential for emission reduction is massive production in Canada is also significantly more expensive, Pugliese said. He notes that similar low-carbon fuels used in vehicles, buses and ferries have about one-eighth of the carbon content when compared to traditional fuels. Pugliese said other countries such as the United States incentivize production and use of low-carbon jet fuel, creating the necessary ecosystem to support a local industry. “Currently, the Canadian aviation industry purchases low-carbon aviation (fuel) from other countries and imports it from across the globe into Canada. That makes little sense.” Parkland began trying to develop the fuel in 2017, and the entire batch of the first production run has already been bought by Air Canada. Pugliese said the purchase of the fuel by Air Canada completes a value chain within the country that shows local development, production, sale and use of low-carbon jet fuel can be achieved to the benefit of everyone — but only if the support from government is there. “Airlines need very practical solutions, and today, right here in B.C., Parkland has created a made-in-Canada solution to a global challenge,” he said. The comments echoed that of WestJet CEO Alexis von Hoensbroech, who in 2023 said the global push for decarbonizing commercial aviation by 2050 will cause spikes in airfares unless governments intervene. Part of the challenge, von Hoensbroech said, is that alternative energy sources such as electric or hydrogen aircraft remains a long way from reality, making the sector difficult to decarbonize. In February, a pair of industry groups, including the National Airlines Council of Canada, said the country needed incentives matching that of the United States to spark production of sustainable aviation fuels. Commercial aviation giant Airbus has said that low-carbon jet fuel can reduce carbon-dioxide emissions by about 80 per cent, and development is ongoing for planes to be able to run completely on it instead of needing to mix it with conventional fuels. But Airbus also said the ecosystem for the fuel is still “in its infancy,” with just 600 million litres produced last year, making up 0.2 per cent of all aviation fuel for 2023. “Appropriate regulatory mechanisms and inventive structures still need to be put in place, and even then, there are challenges associated with the limited availability of land and biowaste,” Airbus said of the technology on its website. Airbus has said it is increasing its own use of low-carbon fuels with a goal of reaching 30 per cent of its total fuel mix by 2030. This report by The Canadian Press was first published Dec. 10, 2024.Trump says he can't guarantee tariffs won't raise prices, won't rule out revenge prosecutionsBoise State's legacy includes winning coaches and championship moments
NoneNEW YORK — There's a Christmas Day basketball game at Walt Disney World, featuring Mickey, Minnie, Goofy and Wemby. An animated game, anyway. The real game takes place at Madison Square Garden, where Victor Wembanyama and the San Antonio Spurs face the New York Knicks in a game televised on ABC and ESPN and streamed on Disney+ and ESPN+. The special alt-cast, the first animated presentation of an NBA game, will be shown on ESPN2 and also stream on Disney+ and ESPN+. Madison Square Garden is a staple of the NBA's Christmas schedule. Now it merges with a bigger home of the holidays, because the "Dunk the Halls" game will be staged at Disney, on a court set up right smack in the middle of where countless families have posed for vacation photos. Why that location? Because it was Mickey Mouse's Christmas wish. "Basketball courts often have the ability to make a normal environment look special, but in Disney it can only turn out incredible," Wembanyama said in an ESPN video promoting his Christmas debut. The story — this is Disney, after all — begins with Mickey penning a letter to Santa Claus, asking if he and his pals can host a basketball game. They'll not only get to watch one with NBA players, but some of them will even get to play. Goofy and Donald Duck will sub in for a couple Knicks players, while Mickey and Minnie Mouse will come on to play for the Spurs. "It looks to me like Goofy and Jalen Brunson have a really good pick-and-roll at the elite level," said Phil Orlins, an ESPN vice president of production. Walt Disney World hosted real NBA games in 2020, when the league set up there to complete its season that had been suspended by the COVID-19 pandemic. Those games were played at the ESPN Wide World of Sports. The setting for the Christmas game will be Main Street USA, at the entrance of the Magic Kingdom. Viewers will recognize Cinderella's castle behind one baseline and the train station at the other end, and perhaps some shops they have visited in between. Previous alternate animated broadcasts included an NFL game taking place in Andy's room from "Toy Story;" the "NHL Big City Greens Classic" during a game between the Washington Capitals and New York Rangers; and earlier this month, another NFL matchup between the Cincinnati Bengals and Dallas Cowboys also taking place at Springfield's Atoms Stadium as part of "The Simpsons Funday Football." Unlike basketball, the players are helmeted in those sports. So, this telecast required an extra level of detail and cooperation with players and teams to create accurate appearances of their faces and hairstyles. "So, this is a level of detail that we've never gone, that we've never done on any other broadcast," said David Sparrgrove, the senior director of creative animation for ESPN. Wembanyama, the 7-foot-3 phenom from France who was last season's NBA Rookie of the Year, looks huge even among most NBA players. The creators of the alternate telecast had to design how he'd look not only among his teammates and rivals, but among mice, ducks and chipmunks. "Like, Victor Wembanyama, seeing him in person is insane. It's like seeing an alien descend on a basketball court, and I think we kind of captured that in his animated character," said Drew Carter, who will again handle play-by-play duties, as he had in the previous animated telecasts, and will get an assist from sideline reporter Daisy Duck. Wembanyama's presence is one reason the Spurs-Knicks matchup, the leadoff to the NBA's five-game Christmas slate, was the obvious choice to do the animated telecast. The noon EST start means it will begin in the early evening in France and should draw well there. Also, it comes after ABC televises the "Disney Parks Magical Christmas Day Parade" for the previous two hours, providing more time to hype the broadcast. Recognizing that some viewers who then switch over to the animated game may be Disney experts but NBA novices, there will be 10 educational explainers to help with basketball lingo and rules. Beyond Sports' visualization technology and Sony's Hawk-Eye tracking allow the animated players to make the same movements and plays made moments earlier by the real ones at MSG. Carter and analyst Monica McNutt will be animated in the style of the telecast, donning VR headsets to experience the game from Main Street, USA. Other animated faces recognizable to some viewers include NBA Commissioner Adam Silver, who will judge a halftime dunk contest among Mickey and his friends, and Santa himself, who will operate ESPN's "SkyCam" during the game. The players are curious how the production — and themselves — will look. "It's going to be so crazy to see the game animated," Spurs veteran Chris Paul said. "I think what's dope about it is it will give kids another opportunity to watch a game and to see us, basically, as characters." Get local news delivered to your inbox!
Trump says he can't guarantee tariffs won't raise prices, won't rule out revenge prosecutionsMan accused in the burning death of a woman on a New York subway appears in courtTottenham Hotspur keen on Angers goalkeeper Yahia Fofana Tottenham Hotspur were held to a frustrating 1-1 draw by Fulham at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in the Premier League on Sunday. Spurs went into the London derby with a depleted squad, with Dominic Solanke dropping out of the squad later in the day due to illness. Guglielmo Vicario is the latest player to get injured after sustaining an ankle fracture in the 4-0 away win over Manchester City. He is expected to be out for months after undergoing surgery, but what was unbelievable about the whole episode is the fact that the goalkeeper had played over 60 minutes through a fracture. While Fraser Forster has temporarily taken the gloves and done very well across two games against AS Roma and Fulham, Tottenham will be in big trouble if the ex-England international were to pick up an injury or be sent off as neither Alfie Whiteman nor Brandon Austin have played a single competitive game for the club. That might force the North Londoners to take a look at the goalkeeping market when the transfer window reopens next month. According to an exclusive report from The Sun , Spurs have identified Angers star Yahia Fofana as one of the potential replacements for the injured Vicario. Yahia Fofana has made quite a name for himself in Ligue 1 in the last few years. A product of the famed Le Havre academy, the Ivory Coast international moved to Angers in 2022. The 24-year-old became Angers’ first-choice goalkeeper last season, racking up 33 appearances in Ligue 1. The French-born Ivorian has made 13 league appearances so far this term, keeping two clean sheets and conceding 21 goals . Fofana has not been helped with a fragile defence in front of him, with Alexandre Dujeux’s side currently 14th in the Ligue 1 table. Come January, he will have only 18 months remaining on his contract ( Transfermarkt ) at the Raymond Kopa Stadium. So, Spurs could try and get Fofana on a relatively cut-price fee next month. The Angers glovesman is decent with the ball at his feet and can make good decisions under pressure. Having earned 18 international caps, the Ivorian has decent experience of playing at the highest level as well. That said, Daniel Levy and Co. must try bringing Fofana to N17 as cover for the injured Vicario. This article first appeared on To The Lane And Back and was syndicated with permission.
United v Arsenal, City face class of 92 in FA Cup third round, Perez leaving Red BullMangaluru: The Central Arecanut and Cocoa Marketing and Processing Cooperative (Campco) stated that the World Health Organisation's (WHO) decision labelling arecanut as carcinogenic is ‘one-sided'. Campco has urged a reassessment of the decision. In an appeal, Campco demanded the central govt facilitate studies and submit reports through reputed institutions such as the Indian Council of Medical Research ( ICMR ), the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), the Central Food Technological Research Institute (CFTRI), and the Indian Institute of Science (IISc). Though arecanut was recognised for its Ayurvedic benefits, WHO categorised it as a cancer-causing substance. Campco considers it a unilateral decision, stated Campco president A Kishore Kumar Kodgi. He pointed out that arecanut holds a sacred place in Indian culture, and was historically acknowledged for its medicinal properties, such as easing respiratory and digestive issues. The WHO report has created significant distress among arecanut growers. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), which is a part of WHO, failed to disclose complete research data in its findings, raising suspicions about potential bias or manipulation of the report, Kodgi stated. Campco cited its own research, along with findings from various institutions, affirming that arecanut is not carcinogenic. Instead, arecanut possesses therapeutic qualities, he said.
American Lithium Announces Intention to Voluntarily Delist Its Common Shares From Nasdaq Capital MarketNEW YORK >> Luigi Mangione, the 26-year-old man charged with murder in the killing of UnitedHealthcare’s CEO, pleaded not guilty today as he was arraigned in New York state Supreme Court. The Manhattan district attorney’s office has charged Mangione with first-degree murder, as well as two variations of second-degree murder and weapons charges. He faces the possibility of life in prison without parole on those charges. Mangione also faces federal charges that could result in the death penalty: The Southern District of New York charged him with murder through use of a firearm, as well as two stalking counts and a firearms offense. He pleaded not guilty to those charges last week. State prosecutors said in court filings that Mangione’s actions were meant to further terrorism and were “intended to intimidate or coerce a civilian population” and to “affect the conduct of a unit of government by murder.” Appearing in court today, his lawyer argued that his case had been politicized and expressed concern that he would not receive a fair trial. The state case is expected to go to trial before the federal one, said Edward Y. Kim, the acting U.S. attorney for the Southern District, and state prosecutors said they would coordinate with federal agencies. Mangione entered the courtroom for his arraignment today wearing a maroon sweater and light-colored pants. His wrists and ankles were shackled. During the hearing, his lawyer, Karen Friedman Agnifilo, told the judge she was concerned about her client’s right to a fair trial. “His rights are being violated,” she said. “He’s a young man, and he is being treated like a human pingpong ball between two warring jurisdictions,” she said, pointing to the federal and state cases and their differing arguments. She also described Mangione’s perp walk after he was extradited to New York last week, during which he was accompanied by Mayor Eric Adams, as “absolutely unnecessary” and “utterly political.” “What was the New York City mayor doing at this press conference?” she asked, adding that Adams, who faces bribery and fraud charges, “should know more than anyone about the presumption of innocence.” She pointed to a number of statements Adams had made publicly about the case, including that he wanted to look Mangione in the eye and say “you carried out this terroristic act in my city.” Friedman Agnifilo noted that he had not used the word “alleged,” and that his statements could be heard by “future, potential jurors.” Judge Gregory Carro responded that he had little control over what happened outside the courtroom but that he would guarantee that Mangione would receive a fair trial. “We will carefully select the jury,” Carro said. Joel J. Seidemann, a prosecutor, took issue with the decision to repeat Adams’ words in court. “I don’t know how that advances the ball,” he said. “We will comply with our ethical obligations with respect to trying this defendant’s guilt in this courtroom, in this courtroom alone.” Mangione’s next appearance in state court is scheduled for Feb. 21. The killing of CEO Brian Thompson renewed a debate about the American health care system. Many took to social media to voice their frustrations in their dealings with insurance companies and their practices of denying claims. Mangione became, to some, a folk hero. Spectators had gathered on the street in 11-degree weather by 6 a.m., hoping to get into the courtroom. A small group of protesters could be seen outside before the hearing began, and it had grown slightly by the time it was over. Some of them chanted, “Free Luigi!” One protester, Nicholas Zamudio, 33, held a sign that read: “United States Healthcare Stole My Livelihood. Prosecute Malicious Profiteers.” Zamudio, who lives in midtown Manhattan, described his experiences with the health care system as “atrocious” and said that the day Thompson was killed had been “a good day.” Zamudio said he had had spinal fusion surgery for back problems and could not afford the injections and other treatments he needed after the operation. He pointed to how Mangione had written in Reddit posts about his own experience with spinal fusion surgery and his painful back issues. “When he writes about things like not being able to lay down, not being able to sleep, that part resonates with me,” Zamudio said, adding that sometimes he can only sleep two to three hours a night. “You start losing your mind when that happens.” Thompson was walking to the entrance of a Hilton hotel in midtown Manhattan on the morning of Dec. 4 for an investor meeting when a masked and hooded gunman opened fire behind him. He was shot once in the back and once in the leg. Authorities have said it was Mangione who waited nearly an hour outside the hotel that morning and raised a 3D-printed 9 mm handgun fitted with a suppressor, known in generic terms as a silencer, and fired at Thompson. Mangione was arrested after a five-day search. He was spotted eating hash browns at a McDonald’s in Altoona, Pennsylvania, by a fellow customer who remarked to a friend that he looked like the person in photos that had been released by the New York Police Department. An employee overheard the conversation and alerted police. He was found with a handgun, a suppressor, ammunition and a fake identification card, as well as a 262-word handwritten manifesto in which he appeared to take responsibility for the shooting, authorities said. The manifesto also indicated that he saw the killing as a direct challenge to the health care industry’s “corruption” and “power games.” Mangione also faces five charges in Pennsylvania, including carrying a gun without a license, forgery, falsely identifying himself to authorities and possessing “instruments of crime,” according to a criminal complaint. This article originally appeared in The New York Times . © 2024 The New York Times Company
The Green Bay Packers have made a surprising decision regarding the status of cornerback Jaire Alexander for Monday night’s game against the New Orleans Saints. Alexander will be inactive for the Packers once again on Monday, according to Tom Pelissero of NFL Network. Pelissero added that while Alexander was a full participant in practice during the week, the Packers felt he simply did not look like himself and chose to hold him back for another week. Sources: #Packers CB Jaire Alexander will be inactive tonight against the #Saints . He’s played just 10 snaps since October with what the team has called a knee injury. He was listed as a full participant this week in practice. But he’s not himself. They’ll reevaluate next week. pic.twitter.com/y6R67EP5yN — Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) December 23, 2024 This is not necessarily cause for concern, but it does come as a surprise given Alexander’s practice status, as there seemed to be real optimism that he would be back for this game. The standout cornerback has been dealing with a torn PCL in his knee, which he re-injured earlier in the season . Obviously, the team does not want to risk anything like that happening again. A two-time Pro Bowl selection, Alexander has only played in 14 games since the start of the 2023 season due to various injuries. The knee problem has limited him to seven appearances in 2024, including just 10 snaps since Week 8. This article first appeared on Larry Brown Sports and was syndicated with permission.NoneZETA COURT UPDATE: The Zeta Global Holdings Class Action Deadline is January 21 –Investors with Losses are Urged to Contact BFA Law (NYSE:ZETA)
(The Center Square) – Michael Madigan’s defense team has begun cross-examination of former Chicago Alderman Daniel Solis at the former Illinois House speaker’s corruption trial. Solis began cooperating with the government in 2016 and secretly recorded conversations until news of his cooperation was leaked to media in 2019. The former 25th Ward alderman reached a deferred prosecution agreement with the government in April 2018. Separately Monday, former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan, Madigan codefendant Michael McClain and former Chicago Alderman and cooperating federal witness Daniel Solis enter the federal court building in Chicago Monday, Dec. 2, 2024. Madigan defense attorney Dan Collins discussed the agreement with Solis Monday. Although Solis admitted that he committed bribery multiple times, he said the agreement allowed him to be charged with only one count of bribery, which carries the potential for 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Solis said the potential punishments could be dropped under the terms of the deal and that he would also be able to continue receiving his pension from the city if the agreement is not dropped by the government. Solis said his pension, funded by Chicago taxpayers, currently pays him $7,900 per month. Collins told Solis that would mean $2 million more in payments if he lives another 20 years. Solis told Collins, “I hope to live as long as I can.” Solis affirmed that the agreement could go out the window if he did not tell the truth. Collins questioned Solis about some of his conduct as a public official and government cooperator, including massages that Solis’ friends arranged for him. Solis testified that he paid for all of the massages he received. Solis said he went to Puerto Rico and stayed at his friend Brian Hynes’ house, where there were prostitutes and “smoking of marijuana.” Solis said that he and the other public officials in attendance “took up a collection” to pay for the prostitutes. Solis said he paid for his airfare to Puerto Rico with campaign funds, because there was a meeting regarding Latino politics at another official’s home on the island. Solis said his sister, Patti Solis Doyle, gave him referral payments because he referred her to Hynes’ vendors assistance program. Collins questioned Solis repeatedly about the vendors assistance program and told him the amounts of the six-figure payments. Collins asserted that, in 2017, Solis told the government that he had no involvement in the vendors assistance program and did not tell the government about the money he was receiving until 2018. Solis said he thought the government was aware. He also said he was mistaken about the amount he thought he was receiving from his sister. Collins displayed evidence of payments from Patti Solis Doyle’s organization, Solis Strategies, to Daniel Solis’ organization, Solis Enterprises. Collins also displayed Daniel Solis’ 2014 tax return and discussed Solis’ expenses claimed for the vendors program, including tens of thousands of dollars in vehicle expenses and travel expenses. When Collins asked if the information was false, Solis answered, “I don’t know.” Collins introduced Daniel Solis’ 2015 tax return along with evidence of payments from Solis Strategies to Solis Enterprises that year and said the ex-alderman did not report $137,000 of income from his sister’s organization. Solis said there was a year when he had to pay money back which he had not reported, but he said he did not remember which year it was. Collins asserted that Solis failed to report more than $100,00 in income on his 2017 tax return. Solis said he received $230,000 in payments from Solis Strategies in 2016, after he began cooperating with the government. Solis said he claimed the income as capital gains on the advice of his sister. Solis said he did not realize that his sister was recommending tax fraud. Solis Doyle managed Hillary Clinton’s presidential campaign in 2008. Collins asserted that Daniel Solis failed to report $140,00 in income on his 2017 tax return, and Solis said, “I don’t know. I don’t remember.” Collins asked Solis if he was concerned that his deferred prosecution agreement “might go poof” because he violated federal law on his tax returns. Solis said he would prefer to talk with his accountant to get the issues straightened out. Collins accused Solis of funding his personal lifestyle with credit-card purchases. “I don’t believe that’s true,” Solis responded. Collins introduced a political vulnerability assessment of Solis leading up to the election. Solis testified twice that he had not reviewed the document, but Collins pointed out what appeared to be Solis’ handwriting on it. Collins asked Solis about a campaign donation to Illinois Comptroller Susana Mendoza. In a recording prosecutors played last week, Solis was heard referring to then-Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel. “Well, I still have to digest this thing with the mayor. He owes me some money,” Solis said. Solis testified that he had made a campaign donation on behalf of the mayor, who promised to pay him back with a campaign donation to Solis. Solis testified Monday that he made a $55,400 donation to Friends for Susana Mendoza in 2018 and that Solis’ friend Hynes made donations to both Solis and Mendoza. Collins pointed out that the Illinois election code prohibits people from making campaign contributions in someone else’s name. Earlier in the trial, prosecutors played a recording from Oct. 22, 2018 of Madigan’s son, Andrew Madigan, telling Madigan’s codefendant, Michael McClain, that then-ComEd CEO Anne Pramaggiore was helping Mendoza “build up support for her mayoral run.” “She likes Susana a lot,” McClain responded. Pramaggiore, McClain and two others were convicted of conspiracy, bribery and falsifying records in the ComEd Four trial last year. Mendoza finished fifth in the primary election for mayor of Chicago in 2019. Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s name was heard in a videotaped recording of a meeting between Solis and Madigan on Oct. 26, 2018, when Solis asked Madigan about a potential board appointment. “I’ve got it in my notes. When I sit down with Pritzker, I’ll tell him, 'Here it is. This is what we wanna do,'" Madigan responded. In a video from Oct 2018, then-Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan tells then-Chicago Alderman Daniel Solis about how he'll get Solis appointed to a high paying state board position. Madigan faces corruption charges in federal court. Read more: https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/ The governor said in 2022 that he did not remember any conversation in which he was asked to find a position for Solis. On Monday afternoon, Collins asked Solis to contrast his interactions with Madigan and Solis’ interactions with former Chicago Alderman Ed Burke. After a sidebar discussion, Judge John Robert Blakey instructed the jury to disregard those questions and answers and asked that they be stricken from the record. Burke was convicted of 18 corruption charges in 2023, including racketeering, bribery, attempted extortion and conspiracy to commit extortion. Madigan and McClain are facing 23 counts of bribery, racketeering and official misconduct. Defense attorney John Mitchell followed Collins and began cross-examination of Solis on McClain’s behalf. Mitchell is expected to continue his questioning of Solis on Tuesday, when United States of America v. Madigan et al is scheduled to resume at the Everett McKinley Dirksen U.S. Courthouse in Chicago.
MUMBAI: Some are first-timers, others seasoned ministers, but they have one thing in common – they want their respective departments, and the people, to know they mean business. So, just two days after assuming office, newly sworn-in ministers in the BJP-led Mahayuti alliance government cracked the whip on officers in their respective departments. Corruption in government transfers wouldn’t be tolerated, they said, nor would underperformance, among other things. Perhaps eager to show they were serious, they seemed to forget that it was the same Mahayuti government that had ruled the state for the last two and a half years. The new ministers were sworn in on December 15, during the winter session of the state legislature, and were assigned their portfolios on December 22. While some have assumed office, others are likely to take charge on Thursday, which is Margashirsha, an auspicious day. Here’s what some of them did on day one: ‘Aren’t you ashamed?’ When social justice minister Sanjay Shirsat turned up unannounced at a hostel for backward class students in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar on Tuesday, he was not impressed. He found walls with seepage, broken window panes, no running water, among other issues that made the hostel almost unlivable. “Aren’t you ashamed of this? Why don’t you come and stay here,” he roared at the officers in charge, in the full glare of the media, who had turned up to capture the moment. Shirsat, Shiv Sena spokesperson and MLA from Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, is a first-time minister. ‘No more bribes for transfers’ Revenue minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule, at a meeting of officers from his department, said he would put a stop to the bribes-for-transfers culture. “Appointments of talathis (local revenue officers in a tehsil) and district collectors, as well as postings from Mantralaya to Nagpur will not be done on (political) recommendations. Nobody can get a transfer for a fee,” he announced, at a function organised by Tarun Bharat newspaper in Nagpur, where he was felicitated on Tuesday. Bawankule, who is also Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) state president and a close aide of chief minister Devendra Fadnavis, was energy minister in the BJP-led government in 2014-2019. ‘Crack down on drugs mafia’ Minister of state for home Yogesh Kadam shook things up at a police station in Navi Mumbai, where he showed up unexpectedly and asked the officers what they were doing to tackle the drugs trade in the city. As a parting shot, he advised the officer in charge to crack down on the narcotics mafia. ‘More vessels for coastal patrolling’ Ports and fisheries minister Nitesh Rane (BJP), another first-time minister, met officers of his departments in Mantralaya and later told the media that he was raising the bar for his department. He hopes surprise visits will keep them on their toes. Rane, who took charge on Tuesday, also said more vessels would be procured for costal patrolling as coastal surveillance is a priority. ‘Let’s tackle teachers’ issues’ Education minister Dada Bhuse (Shiv Sena) convened a meeting of teachers and teaching staff at the government rest house in his constituency, Malegaon, and also asked them what challenges they were facing. ‘Will introduce elevated buses on ropeway’ Transport minister Pratap Sarnaik (Shiv Sena) turned sentimental as he moved into his new office in Mantralaya on Tuesday. Addressing the media, he recalled how he used to visit Mantralaya when he was 12 years old, to sell calendars and incense sticks to make a living. “We used to stay in Dadar and I used to come to Mantralaya wearing shorts to sell agarbattis and calendars to earn a living,’’ said Sarnaik. He also recalled driving an autorickshaw and selling omelet sandwiches in the 1980s. Sarnaik, who now owns a construction company and a hospitality business, is a four-time MLA from Owala-Majiwada constituency in Thane. He vowed to put a stop to political interference in the transfers of officers. “Transfers based on recommendations of political leaders will not be entertained in my department. I want to beat the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) into shape,’’ he said. Sarnaik said he wanted the transport department to introduce an “elevated bus transport system on a ropeway” in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region, adding that Union surface transport minister Nitin Gadkari had said the state could get a central grant for this purpose. He said he would visit Karnataka to study the state transport system there.Andre Drummond latest 76er to hit the injury list
UltraTech Cement Ltd. received a demand order of about Rs 36 crore from the Ujjain tax authority. The order was passed by the additional commissioner of CGST and central excise in Ujjain, demanding a goods and services tax of Rs 17 crore in taxes, and another Rs 17 crore in interest and penalty, according to an exchange filing. In a second order, it demanded a tax of Rs 99 lakh and Rs 1,04 crore as interest and penalty. In the first order, the authority has alleged that the company had not paid GST on the amount paid as royalty or upfront fees under reverse charge mechanism. However, UltraTech said that it "is reviewing the order and will decide on further course of action". In another filing on Tuesday, the Aditya Birla group company intimated that it has received another order in original passed confirming partial demand proposed in SCN by the additional commissioner of CGST and central excise in Ujjain. The second order alleged non-payment of GST on rural infrastructure and road development tax as the reason. For this order too, the company has said that it "is reviewing the order and will decide on further course of action". Recently, the Competition Commission of India had approved UltraTech Cement's proposed acquisition of the India Cements Ltd. for Rs 7,078 crore. In July, the Aditya Birla Group flagship company had announced that it would acquire a 32.72% stake in India Cements from its promoters and their associates for Rs 3,954 crore to expand its footprint in the southern cement market, particularly in Tamil Nadu. Shares of Ultratech Cement Ltd. closed 0.63% lower at Rs 11,395.55 apiece on the BSE, compared to a 0.09% decline in the benchmark Sensex.Asian Stocks Eye Gains as Wall Street Awaits Data: Markets WrapHow to watch NCAA Bowl games 2024/25: live stream college football from anywhere, schedule, kick-off times, TV channels
Jammu: Five soldiers were killed and 5 others injured in a road accident in J&K’s Poonch district on Tuesday, officials said. Officials said that an army vehicle, which was on its way from Nilam Headquarters to the Balnoi Ghora Post, met with an accident upon reaching Ghora Post. “The vehicle fell into a deep gorge around 300-350 feet deep resulting in on-the-spot death of five soldiers and serious injuries to five other soldiers. The vehicle was part of the 11 MLA. After receiving the distress call, the quick reaction team (QRT) of 11 MLI immediately reached the spot and undertook rescue and relief operations,” an official said. The injured soldiers were shifted to the hospital for treatment and the condition of a few of them is said to be critical, the official said. The Nagrota-headquartered White Knight Corps of the army said on X: “All ranks of #WhiteKnightCorps extend their deepest condolences on the tragic loss of five brave soldiers in a vehicle accident during operational duty in the #Poonch sector. Rescue operations are ongoing, and the injured personnel are receiving medical care”. Northern Command chief Lt Gen M.V.SuchindraKumar and all ranks also extended their deepest condolences on the tragic loss of five brave soldiers. “DhruvaCommand stands firm with the bereaved families in this hour of grief”, it said in a post on X. The army has been maintaining heightened vigil on the Line of Control (LoC) after intelligence reports that terrorists are waiting at the launch pads across the border to infiltrate into the Indian side before the mountain passes are closed by heavy snowfall this year.
Apple enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting the arrival of the MacBook Air powered by the new M4 chip, a highly anticipated addition to Apple’s lineup of laptops. After showcasing the power and efficiency of the M4 chips in the MacBook Pro and Mac Mini earlier this year, the Cupertino-based tech giant is expected to deliver a game-changing MacBook Air with the same cutting-edge technology . While Apple has not yet officially announced the launch date, reports from reliable sources suggest that this groundbreaking device could arrive sooner than expected, potentially before the release of the much-discussed iPhone SE 4 . Apple’s in-house M-series chips have revolutionized the tech industry, and the M4 chip is no exception. Known for its outstanding performance and energy efficiency, the M4 chip is expected to take the MacBook Air to new heights. The chip, based on advanced 3nm technology, promises faster processing speeds, improved graphics performance, and longer battery life. These enhancements make the M4 chip a significant upgrade over the M2 chip, which currently powers the latest MacBook Air models. The MacBook Pro and Mac Mini, which debuted earlier this year with M4 chips , have already set benchmarks in terms of performance and user experience. The addition of the M4 chip to the MacBook Air is likely to make it the most powerful Air model yet, appealing to professionals, students, and casual users alike. Renowned Apple analyst Mark Gurman, who frequently shares insights into Apple’s plans through his Bloomberg columns, has hinted that the MacBook Air with M4 chip may be launched before the iPhone SE 4 . This timeline, if accurate, could position the M4-powered MacBook Air as one of the most significant Apple releases in early 2024. Traditionally, Apple unveils new products in March or April, which aligns with Gurman’s prediction. However, Apple’s tight-lipped approach to product launches means the exact date remains uncertain. What’s clear, though, is that the M4 MacBook Air is one of Apple’s most anticipated devices, and its earlier-than-expected launch could steal the spotlight from the iPhone SE 4. While Apple has not officially disclosed the specifications of the M4 MacBook Air, leaks and speculations point to several exciting features. Here’s what we can expect: Also Read | Apple leads global tablet shipments in Q3 with 31.7 pc market share The launch of the M4 MacBook Air could have a ripple effect on Apple’s entire product lineup. By introducing an entry-level laptop with cutting-edge performance, Apple is likely to attract a broader audience. The device’s early release might also influence the timeline for other Apple products, including the iPhone SE 4 and future M4-powered devices. Moreover, the MacBook Air’s competitive pricing could challenge rival laptops in the market, cementing Apple’s dominance in the premium laptop segment. The MacBook Air has long been a favorite among Apple users, thanks to its perfect blend of performance, portability, and affordability. With the M4 chip, the MacBook Air is expected to raise the bar, offering users an even more powerful yet energy-efficient device. As the demand for high-performance laptops continues to grow, the M4 MacBook Air could become a game-changer for professionals, students, and anyone seeking a reliable laptop for work, study, or entertainment. While Apple has yet to confirm the launch of the M4 MacBook Air, all signs point to an imminent release. If it arrives before the iPhone SE 4, as predicted by Mark Gurman, the M4 MacBook Air could dominate headlines and redefine what users expect from an entry-level laptop. Stay tuned for updates as more details about the M4 MacBook Air emerge. With its impressive performance, sleek design, and potential early launch, the M4 MacBook Air promises to be one of Apple’s most exciting releases in 2024.