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Questex’s LDI 2024 Celebrates Success; Proves It’s The Ultimate Gathering for the Live Event and Entertainment Technology IndustryA judge on Monday rejected a request to block a San Jose State women's volleyball team member from playing in a conference tournament on grounds that she is transgender. The ruling by U.S. Magistrate Judge S. Kato Crews in Denver will allow the player, who has played all season, to compete in the Mountain West Conference women's championship opening this week in Las Vegas. The ruling comes in a lawsuit filed by nine current players against the Mountain West Conference challenging the league's policies for allowing transgender players to participate. The players argued that letting her compete was a safety risk and unfair. While some media have reported those and other details, neither San Jose State nor the forfeiting teams have confirmed the school has a trans woman volleyball player. The Associated Press is withholding the player's name because she has not commented publicly on her gender identity. School officials also have declined an interview request with the player. Crews' ruling referred to the athlete as an "alleged transgender" player and noted that no defendant disputed that the San Jose State roster includes a transgender woman player. San Jose State will "continue to support its student-athletes and reject discrimination in all forms," the university said in a statement, confirming that all its student-athletes are eligible to participate under NCAA and conference rules. "We are gratified that the Court rejected an eleventh-hour attempt to change those rules. Our team looks forward to competing in the Mountain West volleyball tournament this week." The conference did not immediately respond to an email seeking comment. The players filed a notice for emergency appeal with the 10th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals. Crews said the players who filed the complaint could have sought relief much earlier, noting the individual universities had acknowledged that not playing their games against San Jose State this season would result in a loss in league standings. He also refused a request to re-seed the tournament without the forfeited losses. The judge said injunctions are meant to preserve the status quo. The conference policy regarding forfeiting for refusing to play against a team with a transgender player had been in effect since 2022 and the San Jose State player has been on the roster since 2022 -– making that the status quo. The player competed at the college level three previous seasons, including two for San Jose State, drawing little attention. This season's awareness of her reported identity led to an uproar among some players, pundits, parents and politicians in a major election year. Crews' ruling also said injunctions are meant to prevent harm, but in this case, he argued, the harm has already occurred. The games have been forfeited, the tournament has been seeded, the teams have made travel plans and the participants have confirmed they're playing. The tournament starts Wednesday and continues Friday and Saturday. Colorado State is seeded first and San Jose State, second. The teams split their regular-season matches and both get byes into Friday's semifinals. San Jose State will play the winner of Wednesday's match between Utah State and Boise State — teams that both forfeited matches to SJSU during the regular season. Boise State associate athletic director Chris Kutz declined to comment on whether the Broncos would play SJSU if they won their first-round tournament game. Utah State officials did not immediately respond to emails seeking comment. The conference tournament winner gets an automatic bid to the NCAA tournament. San Jose State coach Todd Kress, whose team has not competed in the national tournament since 2001, has said his team has been getting "messages of hate" and that has taken a toll on his players. Several teams refused to play against San Jose State during the season, earning losses in the official conference standings. Boise State and Wyoming each had two forfeits while Utah State and Nevada both had one. Southern Utah, a member of the Western Athletic Conference, was first to cancel against San Jose State this year. Nevada's players stated they "refuse to participate in any match that advances injustice against female athletes," without elaborating. Nevada did not qualify for the conference tournament. The nine current players and others now suing the Mountain West Conference, the California State University Board of Trustees and others include San Jose State senior setter and co-captain Brooke Slusser. The teammate Slusser says is transgender hits the volleyball with more force than others on the team, raising fear during practices of suffering concussions from a head hit, the complaint says. The Independent Council on Women's Sports is funding a separate lawsuit against the NCAA for allowing transgender women to compete in women's sports. Both lawsuits claim the landmark 1972 federal antidiscrimination law known as Title IX prohibits transgender women in women's sports. Title IX prohibits sexual discrimination in federally funded education; Slusser is a plaintiff in both lawsuits. Several circuit courts have used a U.S. Supreme Court ruling to conclude that discriminating against someone based on their transgender status or sexual orientation is sex-based discrimination, Crews wrote. That means case law does not prove the "likelihood of success" needed to grant an injunction. An NCAA policy that subjects transgender participation to the rules of sports governing bodies took effect this academic year. USA Volleyball says a trans woman must suppress testosterone for 12 months before competing. The NCAA has not flagged any issues with San Jose State. The Republican governors of Idaho, Nevada, Utah and Wyoming have made public statements in support of the team cancellations, citing fairness in women's sports. President-elect Donald Trump likewise has spoken out against allowing transgender women to compete in women's sports. Crews was a magistrate judge in Colorado's U.S. District Court for more than five years before President Joe Biden appointed him as a federal judge in January. Get local news delivered to your inbox!Airports and highways are expected to be jam-packed during Thanksgiving week, a holiday period likely to end with another record day for air travel in the United States. AAA predicts that nearly 80 million Americans will venture at least 50 miles from home between Tuesday and next Monday, most of them by car. However, travelers could be impacted by ongoing weather challenges and those flying to their destinations could be grounded by delays brought on by airline staffing shortages and an airport service workers strike . Here's the latest: U.S. airlines are preparing for a Thanksgiving holiday rush, and so are the U.S. Postal Service, United Parcel Service and FedEx. Shipping companies will deliver about 2.2 billion packages to homes and businesses across the U.S. from Thanksgiving to Dec. 31, said Satish Jindel, a shipping and logistics expert and president of ShipMatrix. That’s down from 2.3 billion packages last year. Because the shopping period is a week shorter than in 2023, consumers are shopping further ahead of Black Friday and more purchases are taking place in physical stores, he said. The number of holiday package shipments grew 27% in 2020 and by more than 3% the following year during the pandemic. The numbers have been falling since then, with a projected decline of about 6% this holiday season. Looking to de-stress while waiting for your flight? Many airports have a fleet of therapy dogs — designated fidos and puppers that are eager to receive pets and snuggles from weary travelers. Rules and schedules vary from airport to airport, but the group AirportTherapyDogs uses online crowdsourcing to share the locations of therapy dogs across its various social media accounts. Today, Gracie, a toy Australian shepherd, and Budge, an English bulldog, wandered the concourses at Denver International Airport, and an American Staffordshire Terrier named Hugo greeted travelers at Punta Gorda Airport in Florida. Some airports even feature other therapy pals. San Francisco International Airport’s fleet of animals includes a Flemish Giant rabbit and a hypoallergenic pig. “We cannot live on the wages that we are being paid,” ABM cabin cleaner Priscilla Hoyle said at a rally earlier Monday. “I can honestly say it’s hard every single day with my children, working a full-time job but having to look my kids in the eyes and sit there and say, ‘I don’t know if we’re going to have a home today.’” Timothy Lowe II, a wheelchair attendant, said he has to figure out where to spend the night because he doesn’t make enough for a deposit on a home. “We just want to be able to have everything that’s a necessity paid for by the job that hired us to do a great job so they can make billions,” he said. ABM said it is “committed to addressing concerns swiftly” and that there are avenues for employees to communicate issues, including a national hotline and a “general open door policy for managers at our worksite.” Employees of ABM and Prospect Airport Services cast ballots Friday to authorize the work stoppage at Charlotte Douglas International Airport, a hub for American Airlines. They described living paycheck to paycheck while performing jobs that keep planes running on schedule. Most of them earn $12.50 to $19 an hour, union officials said. Rev. Glencie Rhedrick of Charlotte Clergy Coalition for Justice said those workers should make $22 to $25 an hour. The strike is expected to last 24 hours. Several hundred workers participated in the work stoppage. Forty-four fights have been canceled today and nearly 1,900 were delayed by midday on the East Coast, according to FlightAware . According to the organization’s cheekily named MiseryMap , San Francisco International Airport is having the most hiccups right now, with 53 delays and three cancellations between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. EST. While that might sound like a lot of delays, they might not be so bad compared to last Friday when the airport suffered 671 delays and 69 cancellations. In an apparent effort to reduce the headaches caused by airport line cutting, American Airlines has rolled out boarding technology that alerts gate agents with an audible sound if a passenger tries to scan a ticket ahead of their assigned group. This new software won’t accept a boarding pass before the group it’s assigned to is called, so customers who get to the gate prematurely will be asked to go back and wait their turn. As of Wednesday, the airline announced, the technology is now being used in more than 100 U.S. airports that American flies out of. The official expansion arrives after successful tests in three of these locations — Albuquerque International Sunport, Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport and Tucson International Airport. ▶ Read more about American Airlines’ new boarding technology Travel can be stressful in the best of times. Now add in the high-level anxiety that seems to be baked into every holiday season and it’s clear travelers could use some help calming frazzled nerves. Here are a few ways to make your holiday journey a little less stressful: 1. Make a checklist of what you need to do and what you need to bring 2. Carry your comfort with you — think noise-canceling headphones, cozy clothes, snacks and extra medication 3. Stay hydrated 4. Keep up to date on delays, gate changes and cancellations with your airline’s app ▶ Read more tips about staying grounded during holiday travel Thanksgiving Day takes place late this year, with the fourth Thursday of November falling on Nov. 28. That shortens the traditional shopping season and changes the rhythm of holiday travel. With more time before the holiday , people tend to spread out their outbound travel over more days, but everyone returns at the same time, said Andrew Watterson, the chief operating officer of Southwest Airlines . “A late Thanksgiving leads to a big crush at the end,” Watterson said. “The Saturday, Sunday, Monday and Tuesday after Thanksgiving are usually very busy with Thanksgiving this late.” Airlines did a relatively good job of handling holiday crowds last year, when the weather was mild in most of the country. Fewer than 400 U.S. flights were canceled during Thanksgiving week in 2023 — about one out of every 450 flights. So far in 2024, airlines have canceled about 1.3% of all flights. Drivers should know that Tuesday and Wednesday afternoons will be the worst times to travel by car, but it should be smooth sailing on freeways come Thanksgiving Day, according to transportation analytics company INRIX. On the return home, the best travel times for motorists are before 1 p.m. on Sunday, and before 8 a.m. or after 7 p.m. on Monday, the company said. In metropolitan areas like Boston, Los Angeles, New York, Seattle and Washington, “traffic is expected to be more than double what it typically is on a normal day,” INRIX transportation analyst Bob Pishue said. Federal Aviation Administration Administrator Mike Whitaker said last week that he expects his agency to use special measures at some facilities to deal with an ongoing shortage of air traffic controllers. In the past, those facilities have included airports in New York City and Florida. “If we are short on staff, we will slow traffic as needed to keep the system safe,” Whitaker said. The FAA has long struggled with a shortage of controllers that airline officials expect will last for years, despite the agency’s lofty hiring goals. 5. Auto club and insurance company AAA predicts that nearly 80 million Americans will venture at least 50 miles from home between Tuesday and next Monday. Most of them will travel by car. 6. Drivers should get a slight break on gas prices . The nationwide average price for gasoline was $3.06 a gallon on Sunday, down from $3.27 at this time last year. 7. The Transportation Security Administration expects to screen 18.3 million people at U.S. airports during the same seven-day stretch. That would be 6% more than during the corresponding days last year but fit a pattern set throughout 2024. 8. The TSA predicts that 3 million people will pass through airport security checkpoints on Sunday; more than that could break the record of 3.01 million set on the Sunday after the July Fourth holiday. Tuesday and Wednesday are expected to be the next busiest air travel days of Thanksgiving week. ▶ Read more about Thanksgiving travel across the U.S. Workers who clean airplanes, remove trash and help with wheelchairs at Charlotte’s airport, one of the nation’s busiest, went on strike Monday to demand higher wages. The Service Employees International Union announced the strike in a statement early Monday, saying the workers would demand “an end to poverty wages and respect on the job during the holiday travel season.” The strike was expected to last 24 hours, said union spokesperson Sean Keady. Employees of ABM and Prospect Airport Services cast ballots Friday to authorize the work stoppage at Charlotte Douglas International Airport, a hub for American Airlines. The two companies contract with American, one of the world’s biggest carriers, to provide services such as cleaning airplane interiors, removing trash and escorting passengers in wheelchairs. ▶ Read more about the Charlotte airport workers’ strike Parts of the Midwest and East Coast can expect to see heavy rain into Thanksgiving, and there’s potential for snow in Northeastern states. A storm last week brought rain to New York and New Jersey, where wildfires have raged in recent weeks, and heavy snow to northeastern Pennsylvania. The precipitation was expected to help ease drought conditions after an exceptionally dry fall. Heavy snow fell in northeastern Pennsylvania, including the Pocono Mountains. Higher elevations reported up to 17 inches (43 centimeters), with lesser accumulations in valley cities including Scranton and Wilkes-Barre. Around 35,000 customers in 10 counties were still without power, down from 80,000 a day ago. In the Catskills region of New York, nearly 10,000 people remained without power Sunday morning, two days after a storm dumped heavy snow on parts of the region. Precipitation in West Virginia helped put a dent in the state’s worst drought in at least two decades and boosted ski resorts as they prepare to open in the weeks ahead. ▶ Read more about Thanksgiving week weather forecasts Two people died in the Pacific Northwest after a rapidly intensifying “ bomb cyclone ” hit the West Coast last Tuesday, bringing fierce winds that toppled trees and power lines and damaged homes and cars. Hundreds of thousands lost electricity in Washington state before powerful gusts and record rains moved into Northern California. Forecasters said the risk of flooding and mudslides remained as the region will get more rain starting Sunday. But the latest storm won’t be as intense as last week’s atmospheric river , a long plume of moisture that forms over an ocean and flows over land. “However, there’s still threats, smaller threats, and not as significant in terms of magnitude, that are still going to exist across the West Coast for the next two or three days,” weather service forecaster Rich Otto said. As the rain moves east throughout the week, Otto said, there’s a potential for heavy snowfall at higher elevations of the Sierra Nevada, as well as portions of Utah and Colorado. California’s Mammoth Mountain, which received 2 feet (0.6 meters) of fresh snow in the recent storm, could get another 4 feet (1.2 meters) before the newest system clears out Wednesday, the resort said. Another round of wintry weather could complicate travel leading up to the Thanksgiving holiday, according to forecasts across the U.S., while California and Washington state continue to recover from storm damage and power outages. In California, where two people were found dead in floodwaters on Saturday, authorities braced for more rain while grappling with flooding and small landslides from a previous storm . Here’s a look at some of the regional forecasts: 9. Sierra Nevada: The National Weather Service office issued a winter storm warning through Tuesday, with heavy snow expected at higher elevations and wind gusts potentially reaching 55 mph (88 kph). Total snowfall of roughly 4 feet (1.2 meters) was forecast, with the heaviest accumulations expected Monday and Tuesday. 10. Midwest and Great Lakes: The Midwest and Great Lakes regions will see rain and snow Monday and the East Coast will be the most impacted on Thanksgiving and Black Friday, forecasters said. 11. East Coast: A low pressure system is forecast to bring rain to the Southeast early Thursday before heading to the Northeast. Areas from Boston to New York could see rain and breezy conditions, with snowfall possible in parts of northern New Hampshire, northern Maine and the Adirondacks. If the system tracks further inland, there could be less snow and more rain in the mountains, forecasters said. ▶ Read more about Thanksgiving week weather forecasts

Michigan athletic director Warde Manuel gets 5-year contract extension

Pak Activities Dips After Deploying Anti-Drone System Along Jammu Border: IG JAMMU: Drone activities from Pakistan has dropped to almost zero after the deployment of an anti-drone system along the Jammu border, a senior BSF officer said on Friday, asserting that the Indian forces are much ahead over its adversary as far as technological upgradation is concerned. Inspector General of Border Security Force (BSF), Jammu frontier, D K Boora, said India is not the same when the country had old-fashioned weapons. It evolved to adopt new technology and advanced weapons, he added. Besides the heavy deployment of manpower, the technical surveillance is present on the entire border across Jammu region and it is being further expanded to other places in the country, he said. Talking to reporters in connection with the 60th Raising Day celebrations of the force and to highlight the achievements registered by his troops in Jammu this year, Boora said the sector has a sensitive border which is being monitored round-the-clock by boots-on-ground (manpower) and technological advancement with focus to ensure no infiltration from across the border. “The (drone) activities from across the border have come down and the exact reason for it is known to them (Pakistan) only. However, since we have upgraded our (anti-drone) systems on the borders, this problem (drone incursions) has dropped to almost zero in Jammu which proves that our technology is successful,” the BSF officer said. He said technology is evolving in every field all across the world. “It is obvious that the terror groups will use it and so our agencies like police, Army and BSF will try it as well. So this is a general process that the type of technology that is available, it is available for everyone and everyone uses it. And the technology that is available, its counter is also available at the same time,” the BSF officer said, referring to drone and counter-drone gadgets. He said if there is any upgradation of technology in Pakistan, the Indian forces are also getting a new version. In fact, India is ahead of its opponents, he added. “It happens everywhere... there is no need to worry about it because this upgrade is a normal process. If any new thing is available, then it is available for us too. So we use it. “And I assure you that our government and the forces do not leave any such shortage in upgradation that we are left behind of those who work against us,” Boora said, responding to a question on the steps taken to counter terrorists using advanced weapons. He said the Jammu border comes under the most sensitive border in the country and “our soldiers and officers do a very difficult duty here”. “And in doing this work, the BSF has also achieved great success. For this, I would like to congratulate all the people working under my command,” Boora said. Asked about the threat posed by the use of US-made M4 carbines by terrorists, the senior police officer said there is no specific threat as all weapons are the same. “There is hype about the foreign-made carbine even though it does not do anything different. It has the same system as other weapons... magazines, bullets and a trigger. “Today, India is not the same as it was when we had old-fashioned weapons. Now we have new technology, new India-made weapons which are very good,” he said. About the new technology and weapons inducted by BSF in the recent past, Boora said it is not right to divulge the details in the public domain. “I can assure you that the BSF has the latest technology and latest weapons. And whatever technology is upgraded, we immediately invest in it. And we get full support and money from the government. So we are much ahead in that,” he said. (Agencies)NEW YORK, Dec. 13, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Attorney Advertising -- Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC, a nationally recognized law firm, notifies investors that a class action lawsuit has been filed against Sun Communities, Inc. (“Sun Communities” or “the Company”) (NYSE: SUI) and certain of its officers. Class Definition This lawsuit seeks to recover damages against Defendants for alleged violations of the federal securities laws on behalf of all persons and entities that purchased or otherwise acquired Sun Communities securities between February 28, 2019 and September 24, 2024, both dates inclusive (the “Class Period”). Such investors are encouraged to join this case by visiting the firm’s site: bgandg.com/SUI. Case Details The Complaint alleges that Defendants made false and misleading statements and/or failed to disclose material information regarding SUI's accounting practices, internal controls, and financial disclosures. Specifically, the Complaint alleges that Defendants misled investors about the integrity of SUI's Board and the accuracy of its financial reporting. When this information was revealed to the market on September 24, 2024, SUI's stock price declined significantly, causing investors to suffer losses. What's Next? A class action lawsuit has already been filed. If you wish to review a copy of the Complaint, you can visit the firm’s site: bgandg.com/SUI. or you may contact Peretz Bronstein, Esq. or his Client Relations Manager, Nathan Miller, of Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC at 332-239-2660 . If you suffered a loss in Sun Communities you have until February 10, 2025, to request that the Court appoint you as lead plaintiff. Your ability to share in any recovery doesn't require that you serve as lead plaintiff. There is No Cost to You We represent investors in class actions on a contingency fee basis. That means we will ask the court to reimburse us for out-of-pocket expenses and attorneys’ fees, usually a percentage of the total recovery, only if we are successful. Why Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC is a nationally recognized firm that represents investors in securities fraud class actions and shareholder derivative suits. Our firm has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors nationwide. Follow us for updates on LinkedIn , X , Facebook , or Instagram . Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes. Contact Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC Peretz Bronstein or Nathan Miller 332-239-2660 | info@bgandg.com

New York City T-Bone Accident Lawyer Samantha Kucher Releases Comprehensive Article on T-Bone Accidents 11-25-2024 10:22 PM CET | Politics, Law & Society Press release from: ABNewswire New York City T-bone accident lawyer [ https://www.rrklawgroup.com/new-york-t-bone-accident-lawyer/ ] Samantha Kucher of Kucher Law Group has published a detailed article discussing the causes, consequences, and legal challenges associated with T-bone car accidents. The article provides valuable insights for individuals who have experienced such collisions, which often result in severe injuries, vehicle damage, and complex legal issues As a New York City T-bone accident lawyer, Samantha Kucher emphasizes the significant impact that side-impact collisions can have on victims. "T-bone accidents are among the most dangerous types of car crashes because the sides of vehicles offer less protection than the front or rear," Kucher explains. "Victims often face serious physical injuries, emotional trauma, and financial difficulties, which makes understanding their rights and legal options all the more important." The article defines T-bone accidents, often referred to as side-impact collisions, and explains how they typically occur. According to the New York City T-bone accident lawyer, these crashes are most common at intersections and are often caused by failure to yield, running red lights, distracted driving, or impaired driving. Kucher highlights the unique challenges of these accidents, noting, "Determining fault in a T-bone collision can be complicated because it often involves assessing traffic signals, driver behavior, and other factors. That's why it's essential to approach these cases with a thorough and strategic legal plan." The article dives deeper into what makes T-bone accidents particularly hazardous. Unlike rear-end or head-on collisions, side-impact crashes expose passengers to greater risk due to the lack of structural protection on the sides of vehicles. Kucher notes that the force of impact often leads to severe injuries, including head trauma, spinal injuries, broken ribs, and internal organ damage. In addition to physical injuries, the article discusses the emotional and financial toll of T-bone accidents. Victims may experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, or depression, while also facing significant medical expenses and lost income due to their injuries. "The aftermath of a T-bone accident is not just about physical recovery," Kucher says. "It's also about addressing the emotional and financial challenges that victims and their families endure." The article outlines the process of determining fault in T-bone accidents, which can be particularly intricate under New York's comparative negligence laws. These laws allow multiple parties to share responsibility for an accident, with compensation adjusted based on each party's degree of fault. Kucher explains that evidence such as traffic camera footage, witness statements, police reports, and physical evidence like skid marks or vehicle damage plays a critical role in establishing liability. "Each case is unique, and proving fault often requires a detailed investigation," she says. "The goal is to gather as much evidence as possible to build a strong case for compensation." The article also highlights the challenges of dealing with insurance companies after a T-bone accident. Insurance adjusters may attempt to undervalue claims or delay settlements, complicating the recovery process for victims. Kucher advises victims to seek legal guidance to handle these negotiations effectively. Kucher explains the types of compensation available to T-bone accident victims in New York, including economic damages (such as medical expenses and lost wages) and non-economic damages (such as pain and suffering). In some cases, victims may also be entitled to punitive damages if the other driver's behavior was particularly reckless or harmful. "The goal of pursuing compensation is to help victims recover from the physical, emotional, and financial harm they've suffered," Kucher states. "Every case is different, and the amount and type of compensation will depend on the specific circumstances of the accident." Victims of T-bone accidents face a challenging road to recovery, but they don't have to face it alone. Samantha Kucher's article encourages those affected to seek legal representation to protect their rights and pursue the compensation they deserve. About Kucher Law Group: Kucher Law Group is a personal injury law firm dedicated to helping accident victims secure justice and fair compensation. With a focus on car accidents, including T-bone collisions, the firm provides compassionate and diligent representation to clients throughout New York City. Kucher Law Group is known for their client-centered approach and commitment to achieving favorable outcomes for those they represent. Embeds: Youtube Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bn5qOLkDsMk GMB: https://www.google.com/maps?cid=5716384493669715397 Email and website Email: contact@rrklawgroup.com Website: https://www.rrklawgroup.com/brooklyn-personal-injury-attorney/ Media Contact Company Name: Kucher Law Group Contact Person: Samantha Kucher Email:Send Email [ https://www.abnewswire.com/email_contact_us.php?pr=new-york-city-tbone-accident-lawyer-samantha-kucher-releases-comprehensive-article-on-tbone-accidents ] Phone: (929) 563-6780 Address:463 Pulaski St #1c City: Brooklyn State: New York 11221 Country: United States Website: https://www.rrklawgroup.com/brooklyn-personal-injury-attorney/ This release was published on openPR.By JESSICA DAMIANO Finding the perfect gift can be daunting. The only way to truly ensure you get it right would be to ask the recipient what they want, but that wouldn’t be much fun for either of you. Luckily, there’s another tactic to help you earn a “gift whisperer” reputation: seeking out unique, practical, game-changing gifts that will truly surprise and delight. But that’s about as easy as it sounds, which is to say it’s not easy at all. So, we’ve done the legwork for you. Start making your list with this compilation of some of the most innovative, functional and fun gifts of 2024. There’s something for every budget. Bear with me: The new FinaMill Ultimate Spice Grinder set elevates the pedestrian pepper and spice mill in both function and style. Available in three colors (Sangria Red, Midnight Black and Soft Cream), the rechargeable-battery unit grinds with a light touch rather than hand-tiring twists. That’s easier for everyone and especially helpful for those experiencing hand or wrist issues such as arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome or tendinitis. And it’s fun to use. The set includes a stackable storage tray and four pods that can be easily swapped as needed: The GT microplane grater for hard spices, nuts and chocolate; the MAX for large spices and dried herbs; the ProPlus for smaller and oily spices; and the Pepper Pod for, well, pepper. $110. Campers and backyard firepit lovers who have experienced the heartbreak of wet wood will appreciate having a three-pack of Pull Start Fire on hand. Made of 89% recycled materials, including sanding dust, wax and flint, the food-safe, eco-friendly, 3-by-2-by-1-inch fire starters will light a fire quickly without matches, lighters or kindling. Just loop the attached green string around a log, incorporate it into a wood stack, and pull the attached red string to ignite. Each windproof, rainproof block burns for 30 minutes. $29.99. The No Mess Utensil Set from Souper Cubes , a company known for its portioned, silicone freezer trays, lives up to its name. The utensils — a serving spoon and a ladle — have innovative, S-shaped handles designed to rest on the edge of a pot, keeping them upright so they won’t slip in. The design also eliminates the need for a spoon rest or, worse, placing dirty utensils on the kitchen counter or stovetop between stirs. A silicone coating in a choice of Aqua, Charcoal, Cranberry or Blueberry keeps handles cool to the touch. $24.99. The FeatherSnap Wi-Fi smart bird feeder could turn anyone into an avid birdwatcher. Equipped with an HD camera, the dual-chamber feeder enables up-close livestreaming of avian visitors, as well as species-logging via the free mobile app. An optional premium subscription ($59.99 annually or $6.99 monthly) includes unlimited photo and video storage, AI identification with species-specific details, and the opportunity to earn badges for logging new visitors. Turn on notifications to get alerts sent to your phone whenever there’s activity at the feeder. $179.99. Fujifilm’s Instax Mini Link 3 smartphone printer offers a touch of nostalgia without sacrificing technology. Just load the 4.9-by-3.5-by-1.3-inch printer with Instax Mini instant film and connect it to your Android or iOS device via Bluetooth to print wallet-size photos. If you want to get fancy, you can adjust brightness, contrast and saturation, or apply filters, including 3D augmented-reality effects, via the free Instax Mini Link app. It can also make collages of up to six images, or animate photos to share on social media. Available in Rose Pink, Clay White and Sage Green. $99.95. The appropriately named easyplant is one of the best gifts you can give your houseplant-loving friends, regardless of their experience level. Select a pot color, size and plant (or get recommendations based on sunlight requirements, pet friendliness and other attributes) and fill the self-watering container’s built-in reservoir roughly once a month. Moisture will permeate the soil from the bottom as needed, eliminating the often-fatal consequences of over- or under-watering. It’s also a literal lifesaver come vacation time. $49-$259. Related Articles Things To Do | Duct-taped banana sells for $6.2 million at art auction Things To Do | LeBron James says he’s taking a social media break for now Things To Do | Pamela Hayden, longtime ‘Simpsons’ voice actor, including Bart’s friend Milhouse, hangs up her mic Things To Do | Simone Biles to join Snoop Dogg as a guest mentor for an episode on NBC’s ‘The Voice’ Things To Do | Alec Baldwin wasn’t invited to ‘Rust’ premiere, incites anger of slain cinematographer’s family If you’ve got a no-dairy friend on your list, a plant-based milk maker could save them money while allowing them to avoid sugar, stabilizers, thickeners and preservatives. The Nama M1 appliance both blends and strains ingredients, converting nuts, seeds, grains or oats into velvety-smooth milk in just one minute, with zero grit. And for zero waste, the pasty leftover pulp can be used in other recipes for added nutrients. The device also makes infused oils, flavored waters and soups. And, importantly, cleanup is easy. Available in white and black. $400. For friends who prefer stronger beverages, the QelviQ personal sommelier uses “smart” technology to ensure wine is served at its ideal temperature. Unlike traditional wine refrigerators, this device doesn’t take up any floor space. It also doesn’t chill wine to just one or two temperatures based on its color. Instead — paired with the free QelviQ app — the tabletop chiller relies on a database of more than 350,000 wines to bring a bottle to its specific recommended serving temperature in as little as 20 minutes. It also suggests food-wine and wine-food pairings. Plus, the appliance serves as a great icebreaker to inspire dinnertime conversation. Available in Exciting Red, Dashing Black and Dreamy White. $495. Grilling food after dark — and ascertaining its doneness — can prove challenging without outdoor lighting, and it’s nearly impossible to cook while holding a flashlight. But as is often the case, the simplest of solutions can make the biggest of impacts: Uncommon Good’s 2-piece LED Grilling Tool Set puts illumination into the handles of its stainless-steel spatula and tongs. After use, the lights can be removed and the utensils run through the dishwasher. $40.

Musk says US is demanding he pay penalty over disclosures of his Twitter stock purchases DETROIT (AP) — Elon Musk says the Securities and Exchange Commission wants him to pay a penalty or face charges involving what he disclosed — or failed to disclose — about his purchases of Twitter stock before he bought the social media platform in 2022. In a letter, Musk’s lawyer Alex Spiro tells the outgoing SEC chairman, Gary Gensler, that the commission’s demand for a monetary payment is a “misguided scheme” that won’t intimidate Musk. The letter also alleges that the commission reopened an investigation this week into Neuralink, Musk’s computer-to-human brain interface company. The SEC has not released the letter. Nor would it comment on it or confirm whether it has issued such a demand to Musk. Senate begins final push to expand Social Security benefits for millions of people WASHINGTON (AP) — The Senate is pushing toward a vote on legislation that would provide full Social Security benefits to millions of people. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer began the process on Thursday for a final vote on the bill, known as the Social Security Fairness Act. It would eliminate policies that currently limit Social Security payouts for roughly 2.8 million people. The legislation has passed the House. The bill would add more strain on the Social Security Trust funds, which are already estimated to be unable to pay out full benefits beginning in 2035. The measure would add an estimated $195 billion to federal deficits over 10 years, according to the Congressional Budget Office. Trump offers support for dockworkers union by saying ports shouldn't install more automated systems WASHINGTON (AP) — President-elect Donald Trump is offering his support for the dockworkers union before their contract expires next month at Eastern and Gulf Coast ports. He posted on social media Thursday that he met with union leaders and that any further “automation” of the ports would harm workers. He wrote that the “amount of money saved is nowhere near the distress, hurt, and harm it causes for American Workers.” The International Longshoremen’s Association has until Jan. 15 to negotiate a new contract with the U.S. Maritime Alliance, which represents ports and shipping companies. The Maritime Alliance says the technology will improve worker safety and strengthen our supply chains, among other things. IRS recovers $4.7 billion in back taxes and braces for cuts with Trump and GOP in power WASHINGTON (AP) — IRS leadership on Thursday announced that the agency has recovered $4.7 billion in back taxes and proceeds from a variety of crimes. The announcement comes under the backdrop of a promised reckoning from Republicans who will hold a majority over both chambers of the next Congress and have long called for rescinding the tens of billions of dollars in funding provided to the agency by Democrats. IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel said improvements made to the agency will help the incoming administration and new Republican majority congress achieve its goals of administering an extension of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. OpenAI's legal battle with Elon Musk reveals internal turmoil over avoiding AI 'dictatorship' A 7-year-old dispute between tech leaders Elon Musk and Sam Altman over who should run OpenAI and best avoid an artificial intelligence ‘dictatorship’ is now heading to a federal judge as Musk seeks to halt the ChatGPT maker’s ongoing conversion into a for-profit company. Musk, an early OpenAI investor and board member, sued the artificial intelligence company earlier this year. Musk has since escalated the dispute, adding new claims and asking for a court order that would stop OpenAI’s plans to convert itself into a for-profit business more fully. OpenAI is filing its response Friday. OpenAI's Altman will donate $1 million to Trump's inaugural fund LOS ANGELES (AP) — OpenAI CEO Sam Altman is planning to make a $1 million personal donation to President-Elect Donald Trump’s inauguration fund, joining a number of tech companies and executives who are working to improve their relationships the incoming administration. A spokesperson for OpenAI confirmed the move on Friday. The announcement comes one day after Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, said it donated $1 million to the same fund. Amazon also said it plans to donate $1 million. China signals it's prepared to double down on support for the economy as Trump tariffs loom BANGKOK (AP) — Chinese leaders met this week to plot economic policy for the coming year and sketched out plans to raise government spending and relax Beijing's monetary policy. Analysts said the broad-brush plans from the annual Central Economic Work Conference were more of a recap of current policy than ambitious new initiatives at a time when the outlook is clouded by the President-elect Donald Trump's threats to sharply raise tariffs once he takes office. The ruling Communist Party did commit to raising China's deficit and to doing more to encourage consumer spending by bringing wage increases in line with the pace of economic growth. Here's a look at China's main priorities and their potential implications. Stock market today: Wall Street slips at the end of a bumpy week Stocks slipped as Wall Street closes out a rare bumpy week. The S&P 500 was up less than 0.1% in afternoon trading Friday and headed for a weekly loss. The benchmark index hit its latest in a string of records a week ago. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 58 points. The Nasdaq composite was up 0.1%. Broadcom surged after the semiconductor company beat Wall Street’s profit targets and gave a glowing forecast, highlighting its artificial intelligence products. Treasury yields edged higher in the bond market. European markets were mostly lower and Asian markets mostly fell. Next Week: Retail sales, Fed policy update, existing home sales The Commerce Department releases its monthly snapshot of U.S. retail sales Tuesday. Federal Reserve officials wrap up a two-day meeting and issue an interest rate policy update Wednesday. The National Association of Realtors issues its latest update on U.S. home sales Thursday. African Union chairperson candidates advocate for permanent UN Security Council seats NAIROBI, Kenya (AP) — Three African leaders seeking to head the African Union have detailed their plans for regional security amid conflicts and political coups while strongly advocating for inter-Africa trade. The race for chairperson debate was held Friday in Ethiopian capital Addis Ababa. Kenya’s Raila Odinga, Djibouti’s Mahamoud Ali Youssouf and Madagascar’s Richard Randriamandrato are seeking to be elected as chairperson for the 55-member state African Union. They had a two-hour debate Friday in which they all advocated for two permanent seats for African countries at the U.N. Security Council to effectively represent the continent with the youngest population. The three are seeking to convince most African countries before the February election to succeed the African Union Chairperson Moussa Faki.

By JESSICA DAMIANO Finding the perfect gift can be daunting. The only way to truly ensure you get it right would be to ask the recipient what they want, but that wouldn’t be much fun for either of you. Luckily, there’s another tactic to help you earn a “gift whisperer” reputation: seeking out unique, practical, game-changing gifts that will truly surprise and delight. But that’s about as easy as it sounds, which is to say it’s not easy at all. So, we’ve done the legwork for you. Start making your list with this compilation of some of the most innovative, functional and fun gifts of 2024. There’s something for every budget. Bear with me: The new FinaMill Ultimate Spice Grinder set elevates the pedestrian pepper and spice mill in both function and style. Available in three colors (Sangria Red, Midnight Black and Soft Cream), the rechargeable-battery unit grinds with a light touch rather than hand-tiring twists. That’s easier for everyone and especially helpful for those experiencing hand or wrist issues such as arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome or tendinitis. And it’s fun to use. The set includes a stackable storage tray and four pods that can be easily swapped as needed: The GT microplane grater for hard spices, nuts and chocolate; the MAX for large spices and dried herbs; the ProPlus for smaller and oily spices; and the Pepper Pod for, well, pepper. $110. Campers and backyard firepit lovers who have experienced the heartbreak of wet wood will appreciate having a three-pack of Pull Start Fire on hand. Made of 89% recycled materials, including sanding dust, wax and flint, the food-safe, eco-friendly, 3-by-2-by-1-inch fire starters will light a fire quickly without matches, lighters or kindling. Just loop the attached green string around a log, incorporate it into a wood stack, and pull the attached red string to ignite. Each windproof, rainproof block burns for 30 minutes. $29.99. The No Mess Utensil Set from Souper Cubes , a company known for its portioned, silicone freezer trays, lives up to its name. The utensils — a serving spoon and a ladle — have innovative, S-shaped handles designed to rest on the edge of a pot, keeping them upright so they won’t slip in. The design also eliminates the need for a spoon rest or, worse, placing dirty utensils on the kitchen counter or stovetop between stirs. A silicone coating in a choice of Aqua, Charcoal, Cranberry or Blueberry keeps handles cool to the touch. $24.99. The FeatherSnap Wi-Fi smart bird feeder could turn anyone into an avid birdwatcher. Equipped with an HD camera, the dual-chamber feeder enables up-close livestreaming of avian visitors, as well as species-logging via the free mobile app. An optional premium subscription ($59.99 annually or $6.99 monthly) includes unlimited photo and video storage, AI identification with species-specific details, and the opportunity to earn badges for logging new visitors. Turn on notifications to get alerts sent to your phone whenever there’s activity at the feeder. $179.99. Fujifilm’s Instax Mini Link 3 smartphone printer offers a touch of nostalgia without sacrificing technology. Just load the 4.9-by-3.5-by-1.3-inch printer with Instax Mini instant film and connect it to your Android or iOS device via Bluetooth to print wallet-size photos. If you want to get fancy, you can adjust brightness, contrast and saturation, or apply filters, including 3D augmented-reality effects, via the free Instax Mini Link app. It can also make collages of up to six images, or animate photos to share on social media. Available in Rose Pink, Clay White and Sage Green. $99.95. The appropriately named easyplant is one of the best gifts you can give your houseplant-loving friends, regardless of their experience level. Select a pot color, size and plant (or get recommendations based on sunlight requirements, pet friendliness and other attributes) and fill the self-watering container’s built-in reservoir roughly once a month. Moisture will permeate the soil from the bottom as needed, eliminating the often-fatal consequences of over- or under-watering. It’s also a literal lifesaver come vacation time. $49-$259. Related Articles Things To Do | US airports with worst weather delays during holiday season Things To Do | The right book can inspire the young readers in your life, from picture books to YA novels Things To Do | Holiday gift ideas for the movie lover, from bios and books to a status tote Things To Do | Beer pairings for your holiday feasts Things To Do | Make these Tahini-Roasted Sweet Potatoes for Thanksgiving If you’ve got a no-dairy friend on your list, a plant-based milk maker could save them money while allowing them to avoid sugar, stabilizers, thickeners and preservatives. The Nama M1 appliance both blends and strains ingredients, converting nuts, seeds, grains or oats into velvety-smooth milk in just one minute, with zero grit. And for zero waste, the pasty leftover pulp can be used in other recipes for added nutrients. The device also makes infused oils, flavored waters and soups. And, importantly, cleanup is easy. Available in white and black. $400. For friends who prefer stronger beverages, the QelviQ personal sommelier uses “smart” technology to ensure wine is served at its ideal temperature. Unlike traditional wine refrigerators, this device doesn’t take up any floor space. It also doesn’t chill wine to just one or two temperatures based on its color. Instead — paired with the free QelviQ app — the tabletop chiller relies on a database of more than 350,000 wines to bring a bottle to its specific recommended serving temperature in as little as 20 minutes. It also suggests food-wine and wine-food pairings. Plus, the appliance serves as a great icebreaker to inspire dinnertime conversation. Available in Exciting Red, Dashing Black and Dreamy White. $495. Grilling food after dark — and ascertaining its doneness — can prove challenging without outdoor lighting, and it’s nearly impossible to cook while holding a flashlight. But as is often the case, the simplest of solutions can make the biggest of impacts: Uncommon Good’s 2-piece LED Grilling Tool Set puts illumination into the handles of its stainless-steel spatula and tongs. After use, the lights can be removed and the utensils run through the dishwasher. $40.

Michigan athletic director Warde Manuel gets 5-year contract extensionstock is up for the sixth consecutive session on Friday, a streak that began on November 29. What’s more, AMZN stock has advanced in eight out of the last nine sessions. Since then the world’s largest ecommerce platform has gained 14.1% or nearly $300 billion in market cap. At the close, Amazon stock advanced 2.94% to $227.03, closing on Friday near the daily high and also new all-time high. The , which includes Amazon among its 30 constituents, traded slightly lower due to the continuing sell-off of following the Wednesday slaying of one of its top executives. UNH stock fell as much as 5% earlier in the session, while much of the market got excited over the November figure hitting 227K, well above the consensus expectation. The DJIA closed down 0.28%. Amazon stock news Amazon’s price rally does not appear to be based on any one thing. AMZN stock has been in an uptrend since at least August 5, about four months ago, and over the longer term since December 2022. The recent news last week that Amazon has built the second version of a new AI-inflected data center chip is a bright spot. The Trainium2 processor was developed in-house from Annapurna Labs and is said to be four times faster than its earlier iteration. On Wednesday, said that it expects up to 50% efficiency gains by using the Trainium2 chip to train some of its AI models. It has also been using AWS’ Inferentia and Graviton chips for its search widgets. Amazon Web Services has also announced new partnerships with and to train AI products. Additionally, Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales are showing that the US consumer is spending at a healthy clip during the holiday season. Adobe Analytics estimated that consumers spent $13.3 billion on Cyber Monday earlier . That was 7.3% higher than 2023. Black Friday sales topped $10.8 billion as well, and Amazon was sure to be a major recipient of that spend. On Wednesday it came to light that and have halted their advertising on Amazon’s Twitch streaming platform due to complaints alleging that the site is promoting “antisemitic” content. Amazon stock chart Amazon is looking like the healthiest of the Magnificent 7 coming down the home stretch of 2024. Shares are up 49% year to date, while has continued to tread water since its earnings release. Support rests in the vicinity of $196 or $197, where the 50-day Simple Moving Average (SMA) coincides with the pullback on November 20th and 21st. After seeing so many up days, it would be likely for consolidation to ensue. However, the Relative Strength Index (RSI) is only at 73, just barely in overbought territory. Any pullback might not get further than the prior range high in November near $215.

DENVER , Dec. 19, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Predictive Safety is thrilled to unveil our new strategic alliance with DISA Global Solutions, a leading provider of employee screening and compliance services. This collaboration marks a major milestone in our mission to enhance workplace safety, ensure compliance, and promote employee well-being across industries. Workplace Safety & Compliance for a Safer, More Productive Workforce At Predictive Safety, we are committed to reducing workplace incidents by addressing human factors and fostering safer work environments. DISA shares this commitment, making this partnership a perfect synergy to enhance both companies' client offerings. Jeff Akers , CEO of Predictive Safety, states, "We are thrilled to bring our AleterMeter ® technology to DISA's extensive network. This partnership represents the next steps in workplace safety and compliance." This collaboration strengthens DISA's ability to provide tailored compliance programs that address evolving workplace challenges. Together we will help organizations elevate safety by leveraging AlertMeter's ® advanced alertness reporting and KPI metrics, to create thriving, safe work environments. Gold Sponsorship at Day with DISA Predictive Safety is proud to join DISA's annual Day with DISA event. "We are excited to be supporting this great event and an opportunity to connect with DISA's tremendous client base to help raise awareness and credibility with all Predictive Safety has to offer" said Peter Hay , VP of Marketing. Day with DISA offers attendees the chance to explore Predictive Safety's innovative tools and how they complement DISA's comprehensive services. About Predictive Safety Predictive Safety SRP, Inc. is a leader in workforce safety and operational readiness, offering solutions to mitigate risks related to fatigue, impairment, and emotional distress. Our flagship tools, AlertMeter ® and AlertMeter ® FRMS (Fatigue Risk Management System), use advanced science, real-time data, and predictive analytics to proactively address human performance challenges, reduce incidents, and boost productivity. About DISA Global Solutions Founded in 1986, DISA is the industry-leading provider of employee screening and compliance services. With headquarters in Houston and over 35 offices across North America and Europe , DISA offers services including background screening, drug and alcohol testing, DOT & HR compliance, occupational health, and I-9/E-Verify. DISA helps employers make informed staffing decisions while building safer workplaces. For more information please contact Predictive Safety https://predictivesafety.com/ Peter Hay Peter.hay@predictivesafety.com View original content: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/predictive-safety-announces-partnership-with-disa-global-solutions-302335351.html SOURCE PREDICTIVE SAFETY SRP, INC.Londoners will face a 4.6 per cent hike in Tube and rail fares from next March, Mayor Sadiq Khan announced, aligning the capital’s increase with the rise in regulated train fares for England’s mainline railway. According to Sky News on Friday, Transport for London’s (TfL) daily caps will increase by 40p to 70p depending on the zones traveled. Meanwhile, bus and tram fares will remain frozen at £1.75 for unlimited journeys within an hour, a measure Khan says is aimed at easing the burden on commuters. PUNCH Online corroborating the report reveals that the Mayor also made an official announcement on his official social media page. “I’m freezing bus fares in London for another year to support Londoners with the cost of living as much as possible,” Khan shared on X (formerly Twitter) Friday, referencing a video interview with BBC London. The Labour mayor explained that the fare increase is crucial for securing funding for essential transport projects. “Following the government’s budget, ministers made clear that to secure national funding for key transport projects in the future, TfL Tube and rail fares would need to increase in line with national rail fares,” Khan stated. However, he reiterated his commitment to affordability: “Londoners know from my record that wherever possible I’ve made TfL fares more affordable and fairer – whether through the introduction of the Hopper bus fare or freezing TfL fares for five years as mayor. Related News Pastor Bakare holds one-week London ministration Tinubu off to UK for two-week annual leave London introduces direct bus service to protect Jewish communities “Vital national government funding will allow us to progress exciting future projects, such as Superloop 2 and more upgrades to the Tube network, as we continue building a fairer, safer, and greener London for everyone.” Mixed Reactions A spokesperson for the Department for Transport (DfT) clarified that the fare hike was not a stipulation of the £500m funding announced in October’s budget by Chancellor Rachel Reeves. The DfT underscored that the funding would provide a significant boost to London’s transport network. The fare hike comes amidst rising criticism of UK rail costs. A study by campaign group Transport & Environment found that train fares in the UK are the highest in Europe. Great Western Railway fares were reported to be two-and-a-half times higher than the EU and Swiss average for similar routes, while Avanti West Coast fares are 1.5 times more expensive. The group attributed the high costs to “private monopolies” and expensive infrastructure, emphasizing the need for a more affordable system. A public-sector body, Great British Railways, is set to take over rail operations and infrastructure by 2026, potentially reshaping the cost structure. As London braces for these changes, the balance between funding transformative projects and maintaining affordability for commuters remains a focal point of debate, with the comment section to his X post locked, PUNCH Online reports.Letter: Who's going to take your job?

Barbara Morris doesn't really remember much from her Hour Record attempt. "I've forgotten everything about how it felt during (the ride)," she said. "I remember before, I remember feeling quite nervous about the whole thing. Then you breathe, then you go, then you're done." And when she was done, she was sitting with a new Canadian record distance for her category. For the uninitiated, the Hour Record is a cycling race where riders attempt to ride as far as they can in an hour. The race is a distillation of cycling into its purest form. The racer rides a fixed-gear track bike around a velodrome continuously for an hour in an attempt to go the furthest distance. But something as simple as riding a bike in a circle for an hour is also one of the cycling world's biggest challenges. The Hour Record has been pursued since at least 1876, when an American rider named Frank Dodds rode 26.508 km on a penny-farthing. Since then, the top names in cycling have attempted to one up each other, pushing the limits of human endurance, technology and fitness to astounding heights. At the bleeding edge of the sport today, the record stands at 56.792 km and is held by pro racer Filippo Ganna, and the elite pro women's record is 50.267 km, held by Vittoria Bussi. But the race isn't just for the world tour pros. Every year, there is an event called Day of the Hour in Milton, Ont. where athletes can test themselves against the clock. In August, 2024, Comox Valley cyclists Barbara Morris and Derek Steel both took to the track in Milton and made their attempts, and they came away quite successful. Morris now has the Canadian record for Women aged 65-69, riding 38.838 km, and Steel has the world record for men aged 80-84, travelling 39.836 km. "Giuseppe Marinoni was the first person in Derek's age group to set the world record," Morris said. Marinoni, a well-known figure in Canadian cycling, is also the founder of the Marinoni bike brand. Steel said that if he and Marinoni were to have started at the same time, Steel would have lapped Marinoni a few times over. Riders have to train to maintain a high cadence (pedalling speed) and hold themselves still in an uncomfortable, aerodynamic position for the entirety of the race. They do not get to monitor their pace, except through their coaches yelling split times every lap or so and have to endure a lot of physical pain to pull it off. They also have to train for years to build up their endurance and stamina for the event. "You're keeping your body in position and trying to be as aerodynamic as possible," Morris said. "After 30 minutes on the loudspeaker they would say it was half over, and I was like 'only half?' " "I heard the announcement saying there was 15 minutes to go, and it felt like I'd been there for two hours already, just being in that position," Steel added. At this level of competition, the gear plays a large role in the event. Some consider the race to be a test of the limits of equipment as much as it is a test of the human limits. Through testing, van der Vliet determined the optimum cadence for both riders and chose gear ratios to maximize that. He also considered things like chain friction and the number of watts the riders would save if their chains were going around larger gears that would cause fewer articulations. However, at the end of the day, it was all about the rider. Steel's bike is more than 15 years old, and Morris', though newer, is not at the level of a rider like Ganna (Ganna's kit cost more €75,000, or $109,795.87 Canadian). There is only so much technical innovation that can go into a track bike, which has fixed gears and doesn't even have brakes. The journey to even attempting an Hour Record is long. Steel started training two years ago, but had to postpone his attempt due to an injury. Morris joined him a year later. Under the watchful eye of coach John van der Vliet, they did everything from hill repeats to motor pacing (riding behind a motorcycle or scooter to reduce air resistance) to get their speed and endurance up. The pair also travelled to Victoria to train in the outdoor velodrome there. But to Morris and Steel, riding bikes at a high level is just what they do. Steel, at 81 years old, will be racing cyclocross this weekend in Nanaimo and has already signed up for the 2025 Trek BC Gravel Series for 2025. Morris, in her 60s, will be helping spread her knowledge to upcoming generations of riders and training for a full season of racing in the new year. Both are members of the Comox Valley Cycling club, which is actively seeking new members (and they don't have to be racers). "I want younger people to look at me, at 81, and see something they can aspire to," Steel said. "I'm racing against 55-year-olds next weekend. If we were to cut off the point series right now, I'd be in eighth place over all ... that's why I do it. Don't give up, age isn't that important. It's just a mindset." For more information on the Comox Valley Cycle Club, visit .