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For many Australians, the new year is a time for reflection; a re-think of habits, goals and how they might do things better — especially in the era of bio-hacking and lifestyle optimisation. But what are the life hacks that people actually stick with and swear by? We’ve surveyed the SBS newsroom and asked our reporters to pull together a list of 24 hacks they actually use. Unsurprisingly, for busy professionals whose lives are ruled by deadlines and the never-ending news cycle, managing stress and reducing screen time are the hacks they turn to most. We’ve also got tips for reducing waste, saving money, and travelling better, including four things people should do before heading off on holiday. From us to you: Here are the hacks we hope will help you live your best life in 2025. Making sure you're 'match fit' for life 1. World News presenter Janice Petersen swears by a cold blast of water at the end of every shower. "Conquering a small stakes challenge each day means you’re match fit to take on whatever life’s about to throw at you," she said. Source: SBS News Calendar your menial tasks 2. Digital video lead and mother-of-two Julia Calixto is a true believer in scheduling as many tasks as possible, including things such as folding laundry, emailing daycare and booking a blood test — as well as time for a walk and listening to an inspiring podcast. Reduce waste and save money 3. When you have a dress that's too big, Petersen uses a coin or a bangle to tighten it. "Tie [the coin or bangle] with an elastic from the inside [of the dress]. It gives a little ruching feature in 10 seconds. I had about $10 worth of coins in the gold hire dress I wore to the SBS Christmas party. It saved me!" Source: SBS News 4. The Feed video producer Jennifer Luu suggests checking if small businesses will sell you food without the packaging . "My mum brings her own Tupperware to the tofu shop — not only does she save plastic, they also give her a discount for bringing her own container!" 5. Audio journalist Rania Yallop loves using a reusable safety razor instead of a disposable razor. 6. For those itching for a wardrobe refresh, features editor Anna Freeland suggests organising a clothes swap with friends. "Not only do you get to re-home your sartorial has-beens but you may just come away with a few new looks from your friends’ preloved piles. One person’s trash is another’s treasure, as they say! "Bonus tip: bring wine." Listen to grandma 7. Social lead Cathryn Boyes refers back to age-old wisdom for help with her household chores. "My Oma [German for grandmother] used to wash her whites on a sunny day and put them out in the direct sun to bleach them. She said the Australian sun was useful for this." Source: Getty / Thomas Northcut Ease the stress of travel 8. Digital editor and mother-of-two Cecilia Lindgren likes to take care of her future self by always cleaning her home before going on holidays as there's "nothing worse than coming back to a mess". 9. She doubles down on this by placing an " online grocery order to be delivered just after we arrive home". The unexpected cost that could add $500 to your Bali trip 10. As much as Australians love a long road trip, Petersen likes to keep hers as time-efficient as possible by adding a pinch of salt to her water. "It helps top up lost electrolytes and can reduce the need to dash to the loo. Just add a tiny bit occasionally when you need water. Not enough to taste." Source: Getty / rudi_suardi 11. Calixto believes looking forward to a holiday is almost as fun as the holiday itself and she loves to draw this out by creating a spreadsheet with a plan and budget. "It's great to look back on to remember what you did and even share with friends and family when they're after travelling tips," she said. "I'm honestly thinking about doing it for Christmas/New Year — we're not going anywhere but I'm keen to stay across the budget and plan some downtime too — which is just as important but often gets dropped." Reduce screen time Many of our correspondents, including Dateline's Darren Mara, submitted suggestions for how to reduce screen time. See Mara’s tips below! Source: SBS News Stay on top of your mental health 16. Presenter at World News and NITV, Breanna Holden has a standing booking to meet up with her friends for an outdoor activity together, such as walking, rock climbing or a trip to the playground for the kids while the adults enjoy a coffee. "This reduces the money you would spend when seeing mates and also means you get vitamin D, fresh air and it's good for your mental health. Source: SBS News 17. Digital journalist Elfy Scott says a five-minute daily meditation or short breathing exercises make a massive difference in relieving stress. 18. NITV digital content lead Alexis Moran also enjoys listening to meditations , in particular via the Calm app. "I like the guided meditation, especially when you're having trouble falling asleep or feeling anxious." Is your kid getting too much screen time? Take our quiz to find out 19. Calixto likes to write things down . "Chuck the items you have on your mind late at night on a to-do list for the morning ... you'll fall asleep faster." Crack down on wasted time 20. Lindgren is also SBS News' resident Scandi queen and loves to simplify the things in her life. "Buy children the same brand of white socks in bulk at the start of the year to eliminate time wasted sorting socks during the year," she said. "Generally, minimising stuff is so good. I threw out all of my mismatched Tupperware (including the lids that didn't belong anywhere) and bought all new Tupperware at Ikea (which sells lids and containers separately) and it's the best." Source: Supplied 21. Digital news editor Alex Britton also loves the efficiency of his capsule wardrobe . "I have t-shirts in black, navy, grey, white. I have trousers in olive, navy, black, beige. I have shirts in blue and white. Everything goes with everything. No need to think too much about getting dressed!" 22. The Feed digital producer Michelle Elias suggests keeping a dedicated notes page for gift ideas . "When you need to buy [friends] something you can refer to it." Manage your money for less stress 23. Lead of The Feed, Edwina Storie, has separate accounts to set aside money for specific expenses, such as Christmas, big bills, her upcoming wedding and holidays. "I put in $20 in each of them every week or fortnight to help ease the sting when they come around. It’s especially helpful at the end of the year to have some pocket money to spend on Christmas and makes it less financially stressful." 24. Holden says her key to saving money is to withdraw her week's 'spending money' in cash . "That covers groceries, social money, petrol, etc — anything that isn't an automatic transfer. "This makes me a lot more aware of how much money I am actually spending, saves on surcharges, and whatever is left over from my budget goes into a little splurge account."
Before Thursday night’s game in Detroit, a Lions fan from the group that carried the flag onto the field for the national anthem broke free to taunt Packers players, prompting coach Matt LaFleur to get involved. Eventually, game officials separated the fan from LaFleur and Packers players. “ I’ve never been a part of something like that ,” LaFleur said after the game. “He was talking junk to our players, giving them the throat slash sign, I’m trying to de-escalate it and then he gets in my face. I thought it was pretty unsportsmanlike. I’ve never seen that. I’ve been on many fields and usually they police that much better. I thought it was an arrogant fan that wanted to get in part of the action, and I would like to see security or something step in there and get him out of there. Because he shouldn’t be doing that.” The fan, a Lions season-ticket holder, was interviewed by WXYZ . He was largely unrepentant about the situation. He said he’s done it before. He also said he was asked to return to his seat before the anthem happened, and that right before halftime he was asked to leave. “The moment — I got caught up in it,” he said. “I do feel a little bit like I may have embarrassed some fans and maybe the organization and stuff. But that is not my intentions at all. I absolutely love the team and, yeah, I’m sad that it worked out this way. But I’m glad we got the win. I’m glad we got the win. We swept them. That’s two!” He hasn’t heard from the Lions as to whether there will be any other repercussions. Per a team spokesman, the Lions had no comment on the situation. It’s one thing for fans in the stands to give opposing players and coaches the business. For the few who get the privilege to be on the field before the game, it’s fair to expect that they set certain behaviors aside. It’s safe to say that, if the Lions host the Packers in the playoffs, the fan won’t be carrying the flag before the game. If he’s even allowed into Ford Field at all.
US and foreign leaders praise Jimmy Carter's legacy
The first thing I do each morning is check my watch — not for the time but for my sleep score. As a runner, when the glowing red letters say my score — and my training readiness — are poor, I feel an instant dread. Regardless, I scroll on, inspecting my heart rate variability and stress level — snapshots that influence the tone I carry into the day. What does dreading my smartwatch’s interpretation of my athletic competence say about me? That I have become a pawn in the gamification of health data. Last year, electronics represented one of the largest proportions of total Black Friday sales, according to Deloitte . That’s when I bought my first smartwatch, a Garmin. This year, I’m throwing it away. I was the perfect target. For several years, I had been preparing to run my first marathon. I watched fitness influencers, ultramarathoners and Olympians optimize their training with meticulous tracking and high-tech devices. I wanted in. I got the watch and joined Strava, a social media network for athletes. Once I had a tracker on, sleep became sacred. I traded late-night socializing for it, confident that I’d cash in on race day. I built my day around my nights, transfixed by a false sense of control over my circadian rhythm. Sleep, just like my running routine, had slowly morphed from a bodily function into a technological token of productivity. I was hooked, emboldened by the illusion that I was training intuitively. I pushed hard when my Garmin nudged me, and even harder when I wanted to prove its metrics wrong. I began to run more for the PR (personal record) badge and “your fastest 5k!” notifications than for mental clarity and solitude. I ran because I loved it, and because I loved it, I fell prey to the Strava-fication of it. Suddenly, I was no longer running for myself. I was running for public consumption. I realized this only when it literally became painfully obvious. An MRI found that the lingering pain I’d been ignoring in my heels — something my watch hadn’t picked up on — was caused by four running-induced stress fractures. Recovering from the injury forced me to be sedentary, and during that time I’ve thought a lot about the app-ification of exercise culture. I’ve realized that health optimization tools — the ones marketed as necessary for better sleep, a lower resting heart rate, higher VO2 max (a measure of how much oxygen your body absorbs) and so on — are designed to profit off our fitness anxiety. We track ourselves this way and that way, obsessing over our shortcomings to no apparent end. In doing so, we are deprogrammed from listening to innate physiological signals and reprogrammed to create shadow experiences such as posting our detailed workout stats or running paths on digital walls that no one is looking at. I’ve also learned that if you stop tracking, you will feel marginally but measurably better. I don’t deny that today’s fitness gadgets are incredibly alluring, and in many ways tracking can be useful for training. I am convinced, however, that overreliance on the data collected by devices and apps — and the comparisons we draw from sharing it — can quickly corrupt and commodify what I find to be the true essence of running: being present. When we aren’t tracking, when we are just doing, we can begin to reap the dull yet profound psychological benefits of endurance sports — the repetitive silence, the consistent failure — that can’t be captured in a post or monetized. And when we endure the mundane and difficult aspects of a sport, over and over, we often make gains that are mindful as well as physical, becoming more aware of how and what we pay attention to. This is no small task. It takes discipline to remain aware, present and undistracted. Exercise is a rare opportunity to allow our bodies’ movement to color our thoughts from one minute to the next. When we’re in motion, we don’t need to analyze our health metrics. We can learn to accept the moment and be humbled by our limitations. Gift-giving season will attempt to convince you that you need devices to make your exercise more effective and efficient. There will be bright and beautiful advertisements featuring famous athletes. There will be a sleeker smartwatch and a cutting-edge GPS tracking shoe sole like that one Instagram keeps showing you. Be skeptical. Freeing yourself, even temporarily, from the smartwatch or smartphone or smart-fill-in-the-blank that is tracking your every move is a challenge worth taking on. Because every walk or run or ride is a new story, and without fitness devices the path remains ours to choose. (Cate Twining-Ward is a climate policy consultant in New York City.) ©2024 Los Angeles Times. Visit at latimes.com . Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.Developers will have to show that their project either helps reduce the amount of non-recyclable waste going to landfill, or replaces an older, less efficient incinerator. The move forms part of the Government’s drive to increase recycling rates, which have held at about 45% of household waste since 2015. Environment minister Mary Creagh said: “For far too long, the nation has seen its recycling rates stagnate and relied on burning household waste, rather than supporting communities to keep resources in use for longer. “That ends today, with clear conditions for new energy from waste plants – they must be efficient and support net zero and our economic growth mission, before they can get the backing needed to be built.” Developers will also have to ensure their incinerators are ready for carbon capture technology, and demonstrate how the heat they produce can be used to help cut heating bills for households. The Government expects that its “crackdown” on new incinerators will mean only a limited number are built, while still reducing the amount of waste sent to landfill and enabling the country to process the waste it produces. The Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs said the country was almost at the point where it had enough waste facilities to handle non-recyclable rubbish, and so had limited need for new incinerators. But the proposals stop short of the plans included in the Conservatives’ 2024 manifesto, which committed to a complete ban on new incinerators due to their “impact on local communities” and declining demand as recycling increased.
India News Today Live Updates on December 30, 2024 : Jammu and Kashmir Weather Forecast and AQI Today on December 30, 2024: Today's temperature is -27.27 °C., Here's the latest weather forecast
VIDEO: Charles Barkley Floats Run for President with Mark Cuban as VPJimmy Carter, the former US president who became a crusader for human rights and was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in later life, has died aged 100. Mr Carter, who served as the 39th US president between 1977 and 1981, had been receiving hospice care at his home in Plains, Georgia since February 2023, according to the Carter Center, a not-for-profit body he set up to advance human rights. His death was confirmed in a statement released by The Carter Center on Sunday, local time. "My father was a hero, not only to me but to everyone who believes in peace, human rights, and unselfish love," said Chip Carter, the former president's son. "My brothers, sister, and I shared him with the rest of the world through these common beliefs. The world is our family because of the way he brought people together, and we thank you for honouring his memory by continuing to live these shared beliefs." Mr Carter lived longer after leaving the White House than any other ex-president but suffered failing health in later years, including a melanoma that spread to his liver and brain. Until mid-2020, four decades after he left office, he was still teaching at Sunday school twice a month in his tiny hometown. Prior to his centennial celebration, Carter said he was "only trying to make it to vote for Kamala Harris", grandson Jason Carter told Atlanta Journal-Constitution. He achieved that wish on October 16, with the Carter Center confirming he had voted by mail. A one-term president, Carter was arguably more influential, effective and admired as a leader after he left office. When Americans voted a peanut farmer from the deep south into the White House, it was described as the closest they had come to randomly picking a name out of the phone book. However, after the Vietnam War and Watergate scandal, they longed for an honest outsider. Mr Carter — a quietly spoken former Georgia governor with a radiant smile — seemed like the man for the time, introducing himself at the 1976 Democratic convention with the simple line: "My name is Jimmy Carter and I'm running for president." "We want to have faith again. We want to be proud again. We just want the truth again," he said. The surprise Democrat candidate stunned pundits in winning the presidency with his centrist message and brilliant campaign, promising: "I'll never tell a lie. I'll never avoid a controversial issue." Born James Earl Carter Jr, the future president grew up in the tiny town of Plains. As a young man he joined the US Navy and served in the elite nuclear submarine program, but resigned after the sudden death of his father, and returned to Plains to run the family peanut farm. He became a state senator in 1963 and was governor of Georgia from 1971 to 1975. Having been raised in segregated rural Georgia, Mr Carter's politics were influenced by the civil rights era. "The time of racial discrimination is over," he declared at his inauguration as governor. And, by the time he ascended to the White House, he had established himself as a politician with progressive values. He beat Gerald Ford — successor to the disgraced Richard Nixon — at the 1976 presidential election, two years after the climax of the Watergate affair. There were successes in office: a historic peace deal between Israel and Egypt and an arms control treaty with the Soviet Union. However, his time in office is better remembered for the events that overwhelmed it: inflation, a global energy crisis, war in Afghanistan and the US hostage crisis in Iran. The capture of US embassy staff in Tehran by revolutionaries, and the failed rescue mission that ensued, dominated the final year of the Carter administration and contributed hugely to his defeat by Ronald Reagan in 1980. But his tireless work for humanity after his presidency saw him receive the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002. He set up the non-governmental, not-for-profit Carter Center to advance human rights, advocating his enduring belief that conflicts must be solved by mediation and cooperation. "Our commitment to human rights must be absolute," he said. With his wife, Rosalynn, he was a volunteer, helping the needy at home and abroad. Rosalynn died on November 19, 2023 at the age of 96 after living with dementia. "She gave me wise guidance and encouragement when I needed it," Mr Carter said in a statement. "As long as Rosalynn was in the world, I always knew somebody loved and supported me." They were married for 78 years, having wed in 1946 when he was 21 and she was 18. Americans owe Carter 'a debt of gratitude' US president-elect Donald Trump paid tribute to the former president in a post to his platform Truth Social. "Those of us who have been fortunate to have served as President understand this is a very exclusive club, and only we can relate to the enormous responsibility of leading the Greatest Nation in History," Trump wrote. "The challenges Jimmy faced as President came at a pivotal time for our country and he did everything in his power to improve the lives of all Americans. For that, we all owe him a debt of gratitude. "Melania and I are thinking warmly of the Carter Family and their loved ones during this difficult time. We urge everyone to keep them in their hearts and prayers." Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese added to the tributes in a post on X. "President Jimmy Carter gave a century of noble service to the country he loved, to the cause of peace and to the lives of people in need all around the world," he wrote. "Beyond being elected to the presidency or being awarded the Nobel Peace Prize, Jimmy Carter's legacy is best measured in lives changed, saved and uplifted. "Our world is a better a place for Jimmy Carter’s life and work. May he rest in eternal peace." Opposition Leader Peter Dutton acknowledged the late president's efforts to forge a deeper relationship with Australia. "Motivated by a deep morality, he championed the cause of human rights, expanded social services and advocated for nuclear arms reduction," he said in a statement. "As we reflect on the life of President Jimmy Carter, our thoughts are with his children, his family, his Democratic Party colleagues and the American people." ABC/wires ABC
All the places the Gavin & Stacey cast were spotted dining at while filming in Barry
Lions fan who taunted Packers and coach Matt LaFleur during pregame was asked to leave at halftime
Philadelphia star quarterback Jalen Hurts remains in concussion protocol and has been ruled for Sunday's game against the visiting Dallas Cowboys, with the Eagles expected to start Kenny Pickett. Hurts missed practice all week, and head coach Nick Sirianni confirmed before Friday's session that Hurts remains in the concussion protocol, adding, "It's going to be tough for him to make it this week." Hurts and Pickett (ribs) were both injured during last weekend's 36-33 loss to the Washington Commanders, but Pickett was a full participant in Thursday's practice and was limited on Friday. The Eagles also have Tanner McKee as the emergency third quarterback and signed Ian Book to the practice squad this week. Pickett, who grew up as an Eagles fan in Ocean Township, N.J., will have a chance to help Philadelphia (12-3) clinch the NFC East title in his first start for the franchise. "I'm very excited. It's a big opportunity," he told reporters Thursday. "I've been working hard to stay ready and I felt like I was in a good position last game with my preparation and now having a week to practice, I'll feel even better going into the stadium. So, I'm excited. I just want to get the win." Pickett relieved Hurts in the first quarter against Washington and completed 14 of 24 passes for 143 yards with one touchdown and one interception. Prior to that, he had appeared in three games in mop-up duty. "He's done a great job," Eagles wide receiver A.J. Brown said on Friday. "He did a great job last week. I know he had a few hiccups, but overall he's doing a great job. It's not his first rodeo. We have a lot of confidence in him, I do, and I'm excited. "(He's) poised, confident. He comes in, he's commanding the huddle and that's what you want to see." Pickett, 26, compiled a 14-10 record as the starter for the Steelers from 2022-23 after being drafted by Pittsburgh in the first round (20th overall) in 2022. After the Steelers acquired Russell Wilson in March, Pickett was traded along with a 2024 fourth-round pick to the Eagles in exchange for a 2024 third-round pick and two 2025 seventh-rounders. Pickett has completed 62.3 percent of his pass attempts for 4,622 yards with 14 touchdowns and 14 interceptions in 29 career games. He has rushed for 303 yards and four scores. Hurts, 26, has completed 68.7 percent of his passes this season for 2,903 yards with 18 TDs and five picks in 15 starts. He has rushed for 630 yards and is tied for the NFL lead with 14 rushing touchdowns. --Field Level MediaSaturday, December 28, 2024 Cuba’s tourism sector, once a vital economic lifeline, is faltering as the country battles chronic power shortages, a stuttering economy, and the ongoing effects of a decades-long U.S. embargo. Compounding these challenges, the possibility of tighter restrictions under the potential return of Donald Trump’s administration looms large. Tourism in the Dark In cities like Trinidad, known for its colonial charm and proximity to national parks, visitors are greeted by warm evenings but also by frequent power cuts. Guests staying in private accommodations, or casas particulares, often find themselves relying on camping lamps during blackouts, as electricity outages can last hours. Restaurants and hotels power through with generators, but smaller businesses struggle to keep up. Across the island, power shortages disrupt daily life in major tourist hubs, including Havana, Santa Clara, and Vinales. Electricity is sometimes available for only a few hours each day, creating a challenging environment for travelers and business owners alike. A hostel owner in Old Havana described the situation as “very, very difficult,” noting a significant drop in tourist numbers. While his central location ensures a steady stream of guests, others face dwindling bookings, particularly in areas more severely affected by power cuts. Tourism’s Struggles Post-COVID Cuba has been slow to recover from the downturn in tourism caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Dr. Emily Morris, a senior research fellow at University College London, attributes the sluggish rebound to U.S. sanctions, which have cut visitor numbers to around half of pre-pandemic levels. The sanctions have also led to foreign exchange shortages, undermining the quality of hotels and facilities. Repairs are delayed, staff morale has declined, and these issues are increasingly reflected in negative reviews, further discouraging visitors. Power Crisis Rooted in Sanctions Cuba’s power shortages stem from a “confluence of different issues,” according to Dr. Helen Yaffe, a political studies expert. U.S. sanctions restrict Cuba’s access to international credit and essential equipment, while also complicating fuel procurement, which hampers power generation. A nationwide blackout in October underscored the fragility of the island’s energy infrastructure. Recent efforts to reduce vulnerability to power outages have shown some progress, with quicker recovery times after incidents. Cuba is also ramping up its solar energy capacity, aiming for renewables to constitute nearly a quarter of its energy mix by 2030. These efforts are often supported by Chinese suppliers, reflecting Cuba’s pivot toward nations outside the U.S. sphere of influence. A Shrinking Population and Economy Beyond power and tourism struggles, Cuba faces a declining population and economic hardship. With shortages of basic medicines and widespread poverty, many citizens are emigrating in search of better opportunities. The World Health Organization forecasts that Cuba’s population, currently around 11 million, could drop to 9.4 million by 2050. Signs of economic distress are evident across the island, from dilapidated housing blocks to the reliance on horse-drawn carts and oxen for transportation and farming. Despite these challenges, the Cuban government under President Miguel Díaz-Canel continues to prioritize energy independence and resilience. A Complex Political Landscape The strained relationship between Havana and Washington, which briefly thawed under Barack Obama, has since hardened. In the latter part of his first term, Donald Trump designated Cuba a state sponsor of terrorism, discouraging travel and financial remittances. If Trump returns to office, experts expect further restrictions, particularly under the influence of Senator Marco Rubio, a vocal opponent of the Cuban regime. Dr. Yaffe suggests that the U.S. aims to create conditions for Cubans to turn against their government. However, she sees little sign of internal collapse, noting that most vocal critics of the regime have left the country. Younger Cubans, while less ideologically aligned with the revolution, appear more focused on personal survival than political upheaval. Outlook for Cuba While Cuba’s economic and social challenges are stark, the country’s resilience remains a defining feature. The energy transition, strengthened ties with nations like China, and the enduring determination of its people suggest that while the road ahead may be difficult, Cuba is not on the brink of collapse. For now, the nation faces the dual task of weathering its internal crises and navigating the external pressures of its geopolitical environment.Weekly Horoscope Libra, December 8 to 14, 2024 predicts good news for students
Becoming a venture capitalist has become the latest status symbol in Hollywood. Everyone these days, from Olivia Wilde to Emma Watson, is either launching a venture firm or is in the process of backing the next hottest company. Robinhood, Uber, and Klarna all have some glitzy names on their cap tables, paving the way for the rise of “Hollywood angels.” For founders, having celebs on the cap table can bring a lot of buzz to the startup — and bonus points if the celeb knows what they are doing, too. Here are some of the top celebs investing and what they typically look to invest in. (This list will be updated periodically). Snoop Dogg The famous rapper and personality is a prolific angel investor and is also a founder of Casa Verde Capital, a firm focused on cannabis investments. As an angel investor, according to PitchBook, he’s backed companies such as Cameo, Reddit, Klarna, Robinhood, and the fintech MoonPay, alongside other celebs on this list. He’s made at least 26 investments, according to PitchBook. The managing partner of Casa Verde Capital is Karan Wadhera and the firm closed a $94 million Fund II in 2020. Sara and Erin Foster The Foster sisters are two of Hollywood’s most famous siblings, best known these days as the producers of the Kristen Bell Netflix show “Nobody Wants This.” They launched a venture firm in 2022 looking to raise $20 million to back consumer companies, and the fund has officially closed, their reps confirmed to us. They know the consumer area well: They already have a podcast, a clothing line, and a hit television show. PitchBook shows the firm, which they run alongside business partner Phil Schwarz, has written at least six checks, including into companies like the diaper brand Kudos (alongside Gwyneth Paltrow) and the luxury boxed wine company Juliet . As angel investors, the sisters have also invested in the alkaline water company ZenWTR. Sara is also an angel investor in the swimwear company Summersalt and the ear-piercing startup Rowan. Kevin Hart A few years ago, comedian Kevin Hart launched a venture firm, HartBeat Ventures, alongside Robert Roman, an investor with a background in financial management for entertainment and sports celebrities. The firm was founded around 2021 with the mission to support minority and underrepresented founders . It received its first outside investment from J.P. Morgan as part of one of the bank’s initiatives to fund more firms led by women and people of color. The firm has invested in at least 14 companies, according to PitchBook, including the art marketplace Masterworks, the 3D printing company Ready Player Me, and Rihanna’s Savage x Fenty lingerie line. Tashi Nakanishi and Walid Samaha are partners at the firm, according to LinkedIn, while Ron Everline serves as vice president. HartBeat Ventures began raising its Fund I in 2022 with no target amount. As of January 2024, it has raised at least $28 million, according to an SEC filing from January. An October SEC filing also shows that HartBeat is trying to raise capital for what seems to be an SPV looking to invest in Aston Martin’s Formula One car racing team. Paris Hilton The famed socialite is also an angel investor, according to PitchBook. She has made investments through her company 11:11 Media, of which she is the CEO and co-founder. Her investments have included the crypto company MoonPay , the biotech company Colossal Biosciences, the community event platform AfterParty, and the podcast platform Fireside Chats. The theme for her seems to be social platforms, biotechnology, and SaaS products that make consumer life easier. She’s made at least 22 investments, according to PitchBook, and happens to be married to Carter Reum, founder of well-known Los Angeles firm M13 Ventures, which has invested in companies such as ClassPass, Canvas, and Pinterest, according to its website. Ashton Kutcher Perhaps one of the most famed and notable celebrity VCs is Ashton Kutcher . He is the co-founder of two VC firms, A-Grade and Sound Ventures, both of which he started with Guy Oseary. Shortly after launching Sound, Effie Epstein joined as managing partner. Sound Ventures, founded in 2015, looks to back software companies and has more than $1 billion in assets under management, according to PitchBook. It also invests out of thematic funds, and last year launched an AI Growth Thematic fund, which invested in companies such as Hugging Face, OpenAI, Anthropic, and World Labs. He told the audience at TechCrunch’s 2024 Disrupt that he’s backing competitors in AI because he thinks there’s room for multiple massive AI model companies. His other notable investments between A-Grade and Sound include Affirm, Airbnb, Airtable, Duolingo, and Uber. Nas The famed rapper Nas founded his firm QueensBridge Venture Partners back in 2014. It’s made more than 130 investments across various industries and has around $140 million in assets under management, according to PitchBook. Anand Murthy is a partner at the firm. The firm has invested in companies such as the luggage brand Away (alongside Jay-Z) and the bedding company Parachute , according to PitchBook. As an angel investor, Nas has made more than 50 investments, according to PitchBook. He’s backed SeatGeek, Robinhood, Ring, Coinbase, and the fintech Mercury. Gwyneth Paltrow The Goop founder has made at least 24 investments as an angel investor, according to PitchBook. She, alongside Moj Mahdara, is also the co-founder of Kinship Ventures, which invests in consumer and wellness companies. The firm was looking to raise a $75 million VC fund , Axios reported last year, and has backed the crypto payment company MoonPay . According to other SEC filings, it seems Kinship Ventures also raised what seems to be an SPV to back OpenAI and the bitcoin mining company TeraWulf . As an angel investor, Paltrow has invested in the diaper company Kudos , the hair company Crown Affair, the beauty e-commerce marketplace Thirteen Lune, and the beverage brand Olipop, alongside actress Priyanka Chopra, according to PitchBook. Actress Mindy Kaling, rapper Logic, and the Jonas Brothers, also backed Olipop . Emma Watson The actress has cut at least two angel investor checks, according to PitchBook. Investments include at least two companies, including the biomanufacturing company FabricNano , and Hertility Health . Watson is a well-regarded activist, especially when it comes to the environment and women’s rights. It’s no wonder, then, that her two angel investments are in companies that seek to make product manufacturing more sustainable and a women’s health platform. Olivia Wilde Actress and director Olivia Wilde teamed up with Neil Sirni, who led Roc Nation’s venture division Arrive, to launch the venture firm Proximity, Bloomberg reported in October . Wilde does not have a PitchBook profile just yet but Bloomberg reports that her new firm will focus on consumer and enterprise technology and has already cut a few checks, including into Pendulum Therapeutics. Investor Jason Mack and artist Santigold, known for her song “L.E.S. Artistes,” are also partners at the firm, according to Bloomberg. SEC filings show that Proximity is raising two new SPV funds, including a $5 million health fund and another $10 million fund . Jay-Z The music mogul is an angel investor and co-founder of RocNation and of what is now MarcyPen Capital Partners, an investment firm stemming from the merger of Jay-Z’s Marcy Venture Partners with Pendulum Holding’s investment arm Pendulum Opportunities. Roc Nation has a venture arm called Arrive Opportunities Management , which was once managed by Neil Sirni, the investor now working with Olivia Wilde at Proximity. That venture arm has made at least 40 investments, according to PitchBook, backing companies such as Sweetgreen and Epic Games. Before the merger, Marcy Venture Partners invested in several companies, such as Rihanna’s Fenty x Savage (making Rihanna one of the few Black women in the world to have a unicorn company) and the web3 company Spatial Labs . Charlie Hanna and Mason O’Hanlon are listed as investors at MarcyPen Capital Partners on PitchBook and LinkedIn. Furthermore, as an angel investor, Jay-Z has made some notable investments — at least 27, according to PitchBook — into companies like Oatly, Flowhub, Impossible Foods, and the luggage company Away.
Hewlett Packard Enterprise Co. stock underperforms Tuesday when compared to competitors despite daily gains
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CMG Deadline Alert: CMG Investors with Losses in Excess of $100K Have Opportunity to Lead Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. Securities Fraud Lawsuit Filed by The Rosen Law FirmInsurgents reach gates of Syria’s capital, threatening to upend decades of Assad rule BEIRUT (AP) — A Syrian opposition war monitor and a pro-government media outlet say government forces have withdrawn from much of the central city of Homs. The pro-government Sham FM reported that government forces took positions outside Syria’s third-largest city, without elaborating. Rami Abdurrahman who heads the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, said Syrian troops and members of different security agencies have withdrawn from the city, adding that rebels have entered parts of it. Losing Homs is a potentially crippling blow for Syria’s embattled leader, Bashar Assad. An archbishop's knock formally restores Notre Dame to life as winds howl and heads of state look on PARIS (AP) — France’s iconic Notre Dame Cathedral has formally reopened its doors for the first time since a devastating fire nearly destroyed the 861-year-old landmark in 2019. The five-year restoration is widely seen as a boost for French President Emmanuel Macron, who championed the ambitious timeline, and brings a welcome respite from his domestic political woes. World leaders, dignitaries, and worshippers gathered on Saturday evening for the celebrations under the cathedral's soaring arches. The celebration was attended by 1,500 dignitaries, including President-elect Donald Trump, Britain’s Prince William, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. For Catholics, Notre Dame’s rector said the cathedral “carries the enveloping presence of the Virgin Mary, a maternal and embracing presence.′′ Trump is welcomed by Macron to Paris with presidential pomp and joined by Zelenskyy for their talks PARIS (AP) — French President Emmanuel Macron has welcomed Donald Trump to Paris with a full dose of presidential pomp. And they held a hastily arranged meeting with Ukraine’s Volodymyr Zelenskyy on a day that's mixing pageantry with attention to pressing global problems. The president-elect's visit to France is part of a global a celebration of the reopening of Notre Dame Cathedral five years after a devastating fire. Macron and other European leaders are trying to win Trump’s favor and persuade him to maintain support for Ukraine in its defense against Russia’s invasion. Trump isn't back in office but he's already pushing his agenda and negotiating with world leaders NEW YORK (AP) — Donald Trump is making threats, traveling abroad, and negotiating with world leaders. He has more than a month-and-a-half to go before he’s sworn in for a second term. But the president-elect is already moving aggressively to not only fill his Cabinet and outline policy goals, but also to try to achieve his priorities. In recent days, Trump has threatened to impose a 25% tariff on goods from Canada and Mexico, two of the country’s largest trading partners. That led to emergency calls and a visit. And he's warned of “ALL HELL TO PAY” if Hamas doesn't release the hostages still being held captive in Gaza. South Korea's president avoids an impeachment attempt over short-lived martial law SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — South Korea’s embattled President Yoon Suk Yeol has avoided an opposition-led attempt to impeach him over his short-lived imposition of martial law. Most of Yoon's ruling party lawmakers boycotted a parliamentary vote Saturday to deny a two-thirds majority needed to suspend his presidential powers. The scrapping of the motion is expected to intensify protests calling for Yoon’s ouster and deepen political chaos in South Korea. A survey suggests a majority of South Koreans support the president’s impeachment. Yoon’s martial law declaration drew criticism from his own ruling conservative People Power Party. But the party also apparently fears losing the presidency to liberals. Days after gunman killed UnitedHealthcare's CEO, police push to ID him and FBI offers reward NEW YORK (AP) — Nearly four days after the shooting of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, police still do not know the gunman’s name or whereabouts or have a motive for the killing. But they have made some progress in their investigation into Wednesday's killing of the leader of the largest U.S. health insurer, including that the gunman likely left New York City on a bus soon after fleeing the scene. The also found that the gunman left something behind: a backpack that was discovered in Central Park. Police are working with the FBI, which on Friday night announced a $50,000 reward for information leading to an arrest and conviction. UnitedHealthcare CEO's shooting opens a door for many to vent frustrations over insurance The fatal shooting of UnitedHealthcare's CEO has opened the door for many people to vent their frustrations and anger over the insurance industry. The feelings of exasperation, anger, resentment, and helplessness toward insurers aren’t new. But the shooting and the headlines around it have unleashed a new wave of patients sharing such sentiments and personal stories of interactions with insurance companies. Conversations at dinner tables, office water coolers, social gatherings and on social media have pivoted to the topic. Many say they hope the new amplified voices can bring about change for companies often accused of valuing profits over people. 2 Pearl Harbor survivors, ages 104 and 102, return to Hawaii to honor those killed in 1941 attack PEARL HARBOR, Hawaii (AP) — The bombing of Pearl Harbor 83 years ago launched the United States into World War II. Two survivors have returned to the Hawaii military base for a remembrance ceremony on the attack's anniversary. Both are over 100 years old. They joined active-duty troops, veterans and members of the public for an observance hosted by the Navy and the National Park Service. A third survivor was planning to join them but had to cancel due to health issues. The bombing killed more than 2,300 U.S. servicemen. An explosion destroys an apartment block in a Dutch city, killing at least 3 and injuring others THE HAGUE, Netherlands (AP) — An explosion and fire has rocked a neighborhood in the Dutch city of The Hague, killing three people and injuring other people and destroying several apartments. The cause of the disaster is unclear. Emergency authorities said four people were rescued from the rubble and taken to the hospital. The mayor said rescuers were no longer looking for survivors but for eventual bodies, but could not specify how many people might still be unaccounted for. Residents of the northeastern neighborhood of Mariahoeve in The Hague heard a huge bang and screams before dawn. Dutch authorities have deployed a specialized urban search and rescue team to find victims. How 'Mufasa' rose with Aaron Pierre and Blue Ivy's voices along with new Lin-Manuel Miranda music SAN DIEGO (AP) — When Aaron Pierre was cast as Mufasa, the weight of following in the late James Earl Jones’ legendary footsteps was enough to rattle any actor. But instead of letting the pressure roar too loudly, he harnessed his nerves to breathe fresh life into his young lion character. Pierre found parallels between himself and his character while filming his leading role in “Mufasa: The Lion King,” which opens in theaters Dec. 20. He took the reigns as the new voice of Mufasa after Jones played the iconic King Mufasa in both the 1994 and 2019 versions of Disney’s “The Lion King.” The prequel offers a fresh exploration into Mufasa’s origin story.How world leaders are reacting to Jimmy Carter's deathRedefining motion capture with innovative flying action cameras and the award-winning HOVERAir Beacon LAS VEGAS , Dec. 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Recently , Zero Zero Robotics , a pioneering tech company in intelligent devices, announced their participation at CES 2025, where the company will showcase its HOVERAir X1 series of self-flying cameras at booth # 56045 , Venetian, Level 2, Halls A-D. Designed to simplify aerial cinematography, the HOVERAir lineup includes the pocket-sized HOVERAir X1, the action-focused HOVERAir X1 PRO, and the Professional grade HOVERAir X1 PROMAX. Zero Zero will also celebrate its 2025 CES Innovation Awards Honoree title in Audio/Video Components & Accessories for the HOVERAir Beacon, an intelligent modular controller that redefines precision tracking and control. The introductory model in the HOVERAir lineup, HOVERAir X1 , weighs just 125g and delivers an effortless aerial photography experience with no controller or app required. With over five pre-programmed flight paths, including Hover, Follow, Zoom Out, Orbit, and Bird's Eye, it's perfect for capturing cinematic moments in everyday life. Its 2.7K video resolution, palm launch capabilities, and robust computer vision algorithms make it the ultimate everyday and travel companion. Building on the success of the X1, Zero Zero introduced the HOVERAir X1 PRO and HOVERAir X1 PROMAX in August 2024 to meet the demands of action enthusiasts and professional creators. The X1 PRO offers 4K/60fps video with a 104° field of view for versatile shooting conditions. The X1 PROMAX delivers stunning 8K /30fps video with 4K /120fps slow-motion capabilities, a 1/1.3" CMOS sensor, and 14 stops of dynamic range for cinematic footage. Both models feature advanced AI tracking, Level 5 wind resistance, and a lightweight, durable HEMTM frame. "Our vision has always been to create flying cameras that are effortless, intelligent, and fun to use," said MQ Wang, Founder & CEO of Zero Zero Robotics. "The HOVERAir series puts professional-grade aerial cinematography in the palm of your hand, whether you're capturing casual moments or pushing creative boundaries." Adding to these innovations, the HOVERAir Beacon enhances control and precision for the series. The Beacon features a patented Tri-state modular design with two detachable joysticks, enabling one-handed and full-featured two-handed controls. It activates HoverLinkTM for precise tracking with up to a 1 km transmission range, while the 1.78" OLED display allows real-time footage monitoring. Equipped with AI-powered noise cancellation, the Beacon sets a new standard for audio and video recording during aerial shoots. "We're excited to bring the HOVERAir X1 series and Beacon to CES 2025, where we're redefining how motion is captured, tracked, and controlled," continued Wang. "These tools empower creators and adventurers to document their journeys with breathtaking precision and ease." Zero Zero Robotics invites attendees to stop by Booth #56045 to experience the HOVERAir X1 series in action and witness its unparalleled performance. Media wishing to interview Zero Zero Robotics personnel should contact Borjana Slipicevic. About Zero Zero Robotics Zero Zero Robotics was co-founded in 2014 by Stanford PhDs MQ Wang and Tony Zhang , specializing in embedded AI technology for intelligent devices. Known for its innovative machine vision and high-precision control systems, ZeroZero has team members who are dreamers, engineers, inventors, and builders hailing from top universities and research institutions around the world. Zero Zero Robotics holds more than 140 core patents and has pioneered technologies like fully enclosed portable propeller designs and bi-copter designs, cementing its place as a leader in intelligent device development. View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/zero-zero-robotics-showcases-bestselling-hoverair-x1-series-at-ces-2025-302339204.html SOURCE ZeroZero Robotics
Government to block incinerators that do not contribute to green plansBy Cara Anna | Associated Press Opposition fighters are closing in on Syria’s capital in a swiftly developing crisis that has taken much of the world by surprise. Syria’s army has abandoned key cities with little resistance. Nervous residents in Damascus describe security forces on the streets. The state news agency has been forced to deny rumors that President Bashar Assad has left the country. Who are these opposition fighters ? If they enter Damascus after taking some of Syria’s largest cities , what then? Here’s a look at the stunning reversal of fortune for Assad and his government in just the past 10 days, and what might lie ahead as Syria’s 13-year civil war reignites . This is the first time that opposition forces have reached the outskirts of the Syrian capital since 2018, when the country’s troops recaptured the area following a yearslong siege. The approaching fighters are led by the most powerful insurgent group in Syria, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham , or HTS, along with an umbrella group of Turkish-backed Syrian militias called the Syrian National Army. Both have been entrenched in the northwest. They launched the shock offensive on Nov. 27 with gunmen capturing Aleppo, Syria’s largest city, and the central city of Hama, the fourth largest. The HTS has its origins in al-Qaida and is considered a terrorist organization by the U.S. and the United Nations. But the group said in recent years it cut ties with al-Qaida, and experts say HTS has sought to remake itself in recent years by focusing on promoting civilian government in their territory as well as military action. HTS leader Abu Mohammed al-Golani told CNN in an exclusive interview Thursday from Syria that the aim of the offensive is to overthrow Assad’s government. The HTS and Syrian National Army have been allies at times and rivals at times, and their aims might diverge. The Turkish-backed militias also have an interest in creating a buffer zone near the Turkish border to keep away Kurdish militants at odds with Ankara. Turkey has been a main backer of the fighters seeking to overthrow Assad but more recently has urged reconciliation, and Turkish officials have strongly rejected claims of any involvement in the current offensive. Whether the HTS and the Syrian National Army will work together if they succeed in overthrowing Assad or turn on each other again is a major question. While the flash offensive against Syria’s government began in the north, armed opposition groups have also mobilized elsewhere. The southern areas of Sweida and Daraa have both been taken locally. Sweida is the heartland of Syria’s Druze religious minority and had been the site of regular anti-government protests even after Assad seemingly consolidated his control over the area. Daraa is a Sunni Muslim area that was widely seen as the cradle of the uprising against Assad’s rule that erupted in 2011. Daraa was recaptured by Syrian government troops in 2018, but rebels remained in some areas. In recent years, Daraa was in a state of uneasy quiet under a Russian-mediated ceasefire deal. And much of Syria’s east is controlled by the Syrian Democratic Forces, a Kurdish-led group backed by the United States that in the past has clashed with most other armed groups in the country. Syria’s government now has control of only three of 14 provincial capitals: Damascus, Latakia and Tartus. Much depends on Assad’s next moves and his forces’ will to fight the rebels. A commander with the insurgents, Hassan Abdul-Ghani, posted on the Telegram messaging app that opposition forces have started carrying out the “final stage” of their offensive by encircling Damascus. And Syrian troops withdrew Saturday from much of the central city of Homs, Syria’s third largest, according to a pro-government outlet and the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. If that city is captured, the link would be cut between Damascus, Assad’s seat of power, and the coastal region where he enjoys wide support. “Homs to the coastal cities will be a very huge red line politically and socially. Politically, if this line is crossed, then we are talking about the end of the entire Syria, the one that we knew in the past,” said a Damascus resident, Anas Joudeh. Assad appears to be largely on his own as allies Russia and Iran are distracted by other conflicts and the Lebanon-based Hezbollah has been weakened by its war with Israel, now under a fragile ceasefire. The U.N. special envoy for Syria, Geir Pedersen, seeks urgent talks in Geneva to ensure an “orderly political transition,” saying the situation is changing by the minute. He met with foreign ministers and senior diplomats from eight key countries including Saudi Arabia, Russia, Egypt, Turkey and Iran on the sidelines of the Doha Summit. President-elect Donald Trump in his first extensive comments on the developments in Syria said the besieged Assad didn’t deserve U.S. support to stay in power. “THIS IS NOT OUR FIGHT,” Trump posted on social media. ___ Associated Press writer Abby Sewell in Beirut contributed.