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New weapons for F-16 and F-35 Hellenic Air Force fighter jetsHOUSTON (AP) — An elaborate parody appears to be behind an effort to resurrect Enron, the Houston-based energy company that exemplified the worst in American corporate fraud and greed after it went bankrupt in 2001. If its return is comedic, some former employees who lost everything in Enron’s collapse aren’t laughing. “It’s a pretty sick joke and it disparages the people that did work there. And why would you want to even bring it back up again?” said former Enron employee Diana Peters, who represented workers in the company’s bankruptcy proceedings. Here’s what to know about the history of Enron and the purported effort to bring it back. Once the nation’s seventh-largest company, Enron filed for bankruptcy protection on Dec. 2, 2001, after years of accounting tricks could no longer hide billions of dollars in debt or make failing ventures appear profitable. The energy company's collapse put more than 5,000 people out of work and wiped out more than $2 billion in employee pensions. Its aftershocks were felt throughout the energy sector. Twenty-four Enron executives , including former CEO Jeffrey Skilling , were convicted for their roles in the fraud. Enron founder Ken Lay’s convictions were vacated after he died of heart disease following his 2006 trial. On Monday — the 23rd anniversary of the bankruptcy filing — a company representing itself as Enron announced in a news release it was relaunching as a “company dedicated to solving the global energy crisis.” It also posted a video on social media, advertised on at least one Houston billboard and a took out a full-page ad in the Houston Chronicle In the minute-long video full of generic corporate jargon, the company talks about “growth” and “rebirth.” It ends with the words, “We’re back. Can we talk?” In an email, company spokesperson Will Chabot said the new Enron was not doing any interviews yet, but "We’ll have more to share soon.” Signs point to the comeback being a joke. In the “terms of use and conditions of sale” on the company's website, it says “the information on the website about Enron is First Amendment protected parody, represents performance art, and is for entertainment purposes only.” Documents filed with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office show College Company, an Arkansas-based LLC, owns the Enron trademark. The co-founder of College Company is Connor Gaydos, who helped create a joke conspiracy theory claiming all birds are actually government surveillance drones. Peters said she and some other former employees are upset and think the relaunch was “in poor taste.” “If it’s a joke, it’s rude, extremely rude. And I hope that they realize it and apologize to all of the Enron employees,” Peters said. Peters, 74, said she is still working in information technology because “I lost everything in Enron, and so my Social Security doesn’t always take care of things I need done.” “Enron’s downfall taught us critical lessons about corporate ethics, accountability, and the consequences of unchecked ambition. Enron’s legacy was the employees in the trenches. Leave Enron buried,” she said. But Sherron Watkins, Enron’s former vice president of corporate development and the main whistleblower who helped uncover the scandal, said she didn’t have a problem with the joke because comedy “usually helps us focus on an uncomfortable historical event that we’d rather ignore.” “I think we use prior scandals to try to teach new generations what can go wrong with big companies,” said Watkins, who still speaks at colleges and conferences about the Enron scandal. This story was corrected to fix the spelling of Ken Lay’s first name, which had been misspelled “Key.” Follow Juan A. Lozano on X at https://x.com/juanlozano70
During his brief weekly media availability last week, Pittsburgh Steelers receiver George Pickens answered questions related to the previous week’s game against the Cleveland Browns by invoking that infamous Marshawn Lynch line, “ I’m just here so I don’t get fined .” With the Browns again on the schedule this week, Pickens couldn’t lean on the looking-ahead-and-not-back crutch when he spoke with reporters Friday. So, Pickens delivered some precise daggers aimed about two hours to the northwest. When word quickly spread to the Browns headquarters in Barea, Ohio, the Browns shot right back. It was that kind of afternoon Friday, the type that adds more spice to one of the NFL’s longest-standing rivalries in advance of Sunday’s game between the Steelers and Browns. Fifteen days after Pickens said in the aftermath of a 24-19 defeat to the Browns in Cleveland, “ I don’t really think the Cleveland Browns are a good team at all ,’ Pickens took a pragmatic approach to doubling down. “I Just go by the record,” he said. At 3-9, Cleveland will be eliminated from playoff contention after their next loss. But does Pickens worry that his comments will motivate the Browns to again beat the Steelers (9-3)? “Uh, I don’t know what motivates them, ” Pickens said. “I am just focused on what we can do. “I am not focused on them.” Fair enough. But it was during that Nov. 21 meeting in the snow at Huntington Bank Field that Pickens appeared to be preoccupied with what Browns cornerback Greg Newsome was doing rather than making an attempt at a desperation Hail Mary pass into the end zone as time was expiring. Pickens tussled with Newsome as the ball was in the air and was engaged with him out of the back of the end zone and into the first row of seats as the ball fell incomplete and the game ended. Newsome after that game posted to his X account, “ Fake tough guy .” Pickens surely had to be made aware of that. But in a move that evoked a true heel turn by top-flight professional wrestlers, Pickens had a response ready when asked if he intended to approach or speak to Newsome before Sunday’s game. “I don’t even know who that is.” Less than 40 minutes after Pickens said that, Newsome again took to social media in response, sharing a screenshot of a May 2019 direct message Pickens sent to Newsome about four months before Pickens’ began his freshman season at the University of Georgia. Newsome accompanied the screenshot with emojis of a laugh and of a clown. Newsome was even more pointed in his comments to media in Cleveland . “I am all about the team,” Newsome on Friday told reporters who cover the Browns. “Obviously, he’s a guy who cares more about himself, and you can see that in the penalties that he causes.” Pickens was flagged twice for unsportsmanlike conduct during this past Sunday’s Steelers win at the Cincinnati Bengals. To that end, Pickens on Friday echoed what he said after the game – that it was the officials who were to blame for the flags thrown on him. “I am out here making plays and doing the same celebrations that every other receiver is doing, so I am not sure,” Pickens said at one point Friday. Moments later, he added: “That comes from playing hard. When you’re playing hard the league has a target on your back, you possibly – I am not saying 100% — but you possibly can get flags.” Newsome, meanwhile, wasn’t finished. Pressed by reporters for reaction to Pickens’ thinly-veiled disparagement, Newsome said he wouldn’t allow it to carry over to the field Sunday. “I’m an ultimate professional, so it’s easy for me,” Newsome said. “A guy like him, it’s obviously hard. That (pushing/shoving incident) happened our game. He got two more penalties the next game. So, that’s just a trend that he does. But me, I am a professional so I would never let somebody make me do something that would hurt my football team.” Multiple times, Newsome dismissed Pickens’ comments. “I don’t take it as disrespectful” Newsome said, “because I don’t care about the dude at all.” It’s become routine for Pickens to be at the center of attention or embroiled in controversy after or in advance of a game. On top of everything else Friday, Pickens was added to the league-mandated status report because of a hamstring injury apparently suffered Friday. He is officially listed as questionable to play Sunday. Pickens, who has never missed a game in his three-year NFL career, was asked if he feels as if opponents and officials have placed a proverbial target on his back. “I don’t know,” Pickens said. “I hope not. I’m just out here playing like any other receiver.”TikTok's future uncertain after appeals court rejects its bid to overturn possible US ban
Hemodynamic Monitoring Market: Trends, Size, Share, Growth, and Demand by 2031 11-27-2024 08:11 PM CET | Advertising, Media Consulting, Marketing Research Press release from: Data Bridge Market Research (DBMR) Hemodynamic Monitoring Market The healthcare industry is undergoing a profound transformation, driven by advancements in technology and a growing emphasis on patient-centric care. One sector experiencing significant innovation is the hemodynamic monitoring market. Hemodynamic monitoring, essential for assessing cardiovascular health and guiding therapeutic interventions, has become a cornerstone of critical care, surgery, and cardiology. By 2031, this market is projected to expand at an impressive pace, reflecting a combination of technological advancements, growing patient populations, and evolving medical needs. Access Full 350 Pages PDF Report @ https://www.databridgemarketresearch.com/reports/global-hemodynamic-monitoring-market Hemodynamic monitoring refers to the measurement of blood flow and pressure within the cardiovascular system. It provides critical data about the heart's efficiency, vascular resistance, and overall circulatory health. The data obtained aids clinicians in diagnosing conditions such as sepsis, heart failure, and shock, and in guiding treatment strategies during high-risk surgeries or intensive care scenarios. The monitoring techniques are categorized into invasive, minimally invasive, and non-invasive approaches. Invasive methods, such as pulmonary artery catheterization, are highly accurate but involve risks. Non-invasive methods, leveraging technologies like Doppler ultrasound, are gaining traction for their safety and ease of use. As healthcare systems worldwide prioritize precision medicine and advanced patient management, the demand for hemodynamic monitoring devices continues to surge. Trends Shaping the Hemodynamic Monitoring Market Several key trends are propelling the growth and innovation within the hemodynamic monitoring market: Technological Advancements Manufacturers are leveraging AI, IoT, and big data analytics to develop smart and connected hemodynamic monitoring systems. These innovations enable real-time data tracking, remote monitoring, and predictive analytics, improving patient outcomes. Portable and wearable hemodynamic monitors are also gaining popularity due to their convenience in outpatient settings. Shift Toward Non-Invasive Monitoring Non-invasive methods are witnessing higher adoption rates owing to their safety profile and ease of application. Devices utilizing technologies such as bioimpedance and photoplethysmography (PPG) are becoming more accurate and affordable, driving their use in diverse healthcare environments. Rising Prevalence of Chronic Diseases Cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and hypertension are on the rise globally, increasing the need for continuous and effective monitoring solutions. Aging populations in developed countries further amplify this demand, as elderly patients often require comprehensive cardiovascular assessments. Integration of Telemedicine The integration of hemodynamic monitoring with telemedicine platforms is revolutionizing patient care. Remote monitoring devices enable clinicians to track patients' cardiovascular health from afar, ensuring timely interventions and reducing hospital admissions. Growing Focus on Personalized Healthcare Personalized medicine emphasizes treatments tailored to individual patients. Hemodynamic monitoring plays a crucial role in this approach by providing real-time, patient-specific data that guides customized therapeutic decisions. Market Size and Share Analysis The global hemodynamic monitoring market is expected to gain market growth in the forecast period of 2024 to 2031. Data Bridge Market Research analyses that the market is growing with a CAGR of 7.2% in the forecast period of 2024 to 2031 and is expected to reach USD 3,839,125.07 thousand by 2031 from USD 2,214,354.71 thousand in 2023. Regional Insights North America dominates the market, accounting for a significant share due to advanced healthcare infrastructure, high adoption rates of innovative technologies, and a growing elderly population. Europe holds the second-largest share, driven by government healthcare initiatives and rising prevalence of cardiovascular diseases. Asia-Pacific is emerging as the fastest-growing region, fueled by increasing healthcare expenditure, a rising middle-class population, and a growing focus on improving healthcare services in countries like China and India. Latin America, the Middle East, and Africa are also witnessing gradual growth as awareness and access to advanced medical technologies improve. Segment Insights By Product Type: The market is segmented into monitoring systems and disposables. Monitoring systems dominate the segment due to their recurring demand in critical care settings. By Modality: Invasive, minimally invasive, and non-invasive are the primary modalities. Non-invasive techniques are rapidly gaining ground due to technological improvements and patient safety considerations. By End-User: Hospitals remain the largest end-users, but outpatient settings and home care are growing rapidly, driven by the demand for portable monitoring devices. Growth Drivers The growth of the hemodynamic monitoring market can be attributed to several factors: Increased Surgical Procedures With a rise in complex surgeries such as organ transplants and cardiovascular interventions, the need for advanced monitoring devices during perioperative and postoperative phases has grown significantly. Focus on Early Diagnosis Healthcare providers are placing a stronger emphasis on early detection of cardiovascular conditions, which requires sophisticated monitoring systems. Rising Healthcare Expenditure Increased healthcare spending in developing countries is enabling the procurement of advanced monitoring systems, bridging the gap between technology-rich and resource-constrained regions. Regulatory Support Governments worldwide are incentivizing the adoption of advanced healthcare technologies through subsidies, grants, and favorable policies, further boosting the market. Challenges in the Market Despite promising growth, the hemodynamic monitoring market faces challenges such as: High Costs: Advanced monitoring systems can be expensive, limiting their adoption in low-income regions. Skill Gap: Operating complex monitoring devices requires trained professionals, which can be a constraint in underdeveloped areas. Regulatory Hurdles: Stringent approval processes for medical devices can delay product launches and innovation. Future Demand and Outlook to 2031 The demand for hemodynamic monitoring systems is set to rise significantly by 2031, driven by evolving healthcare needs and technological advancements. Portable and wearable devices are expected to dominate, reflecting a shift toward patient-friendly solutions. Additionally, the integration of artificial intelligence will enhance predictive capabilities, allowing for earlier interventions and better outcomes. Emerging markets in Asia-Pacific and Latin America are anticipated to contribute significantly to growth, as governments invest in healthcare infrastructure and the adoption of modern technologies becomes widespread. Browse Trending Reports: https://aimarketresearch2024.blogspot.com/2024/11/hemiballismus-treatment-market-size_27.html https://aimarketresearch2024.blogspot.com/2024/11/hemodynamic-monitoring-market-size.html https://aimarketresearch2024.blogspot.com/2024/11/high-performance-lubricant-market-size.html https://aimarketresearch2024.blogspot.com/2024/11/human-milk-oligosaccharides-in-infant.html In conclusion, the hemodynamic monitoring market is poised for robust growth, supported by a confluence of technological innovation, rising patient awareness, and the increasing prevalence of cardiovascular and chronic diseases. By 2031, this market will not only transform critical care practices but also pave the way for a new era of precision medicine. About Data Bridge Market Research: Data Bridge set forth itself as an unconventional and neoteric Market research and consulting firm with unparalleled level of resilience and integrated approaches. We are determined to unearth the best market opportunities and foster efficient information for your business to thrive in the market. Data Bridge endeavors to provide appropriate solutions to complex business challenges and initiates an effortless decision-making process. Contact Us: Data Bridge Market Research US: +1 614 591 3140 UK: +44 845 154 9652 APAC : +653 1251 975 Email: corporatesales@databridgemarketresearch.com" This release was published on openPR.McDermott, AFC East-leading Bills refreshed coming out of bye week, and looking ahead to host 49ers
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Middle East latest: Israeli strikes on Gaza hospital wound 3, Netanyahu vows 'iron fist' in Lebanon... The Borno State government has established a dedicated desk officer for the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), to ensure a seamless loan application process for tertiary education students in the state. Borno State Commissioner for Education, Science, Technology, and Innovation, Lawan Abba Wakilbe, made the disclosure when the Managing Director of NELFUND, Akintunde Sawyerr visited the state to engage with students, educators, and government officials, highlighting the benefits of the NELFUND initiative. Wakilbe who reiterated the Borno state government’s commitment to facilitating student access to the loan, explained that the desk officer for NELFUND in the state would work in collaboration with the Special Adviser to Governor Babagana Zulum on Higher Education and other educators. According.to him, the initiative would guide students throughout the application process and ensure they fully understand the benefits of the loan, which he described as a low-risk grant and encouraged all eligible students to take advantage of the programme. The Managing Director NELFUND Akintunde Sawyerr, emphasized on President Tinubu’s commitment to revitalizing education in the country, stating that the loan programme is designed to also reduce unproductivity and unhappiness amongst Nigerians students, which often lead to broader societal issues. Sawyerr while explaining the loan’s modalities, which include creating an online profile as a prerequisite for application, clarifyed that the loan was interest-free and does not require a fixed repayment period, thus making it accessible and flexible for students. . According to him, NELFUND, an initiative of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, aims to provide all higher institution students with access to financial resources, enabling them to pursue their educational goals and aspirations at ease. During the session, questions were raised seeking further clarification, where the Managing Director provided detailed responses, shedding more light on the programme and its benefitsMonster Hunter Wilds is now available to pre-order on the platform of your choice, and Capcom has prepared a lot of goodies for those willing to spend more money. Following the MH Wilds open beta test, Capcom has revealed what bonuses players will get for either buying the more expensive versions along with the rewards for longtime fans of the series. Here is everything you need to know about Monster Hunter Wilds regarding its price, editions, pre-order bonuses and save data bonuses. Monster Hunter Wilds Price and Editions Monster Hunter Wilds will come in three editions: The Deluxe Edition of the game includes the Deluxe Pack, which has the following items: The Premium Deluxe Edition will include the following items: Monster Hunter Wilds Pre-Order Bonuses Everyone who purchases MH Wilds before its release date will receive the following pre-order bonus items: Monster Hunter Wilds Save Data Bonuses Those who played Monster Hunter World and its Iceborne expansion can unlock more bonus items in MH Wilds by transferring their saved data from the previous installment. Here are the save data bonuses for MH Wilds: Monster Hunter World Save Data Bonuses Monster Hunter World: Iceborne Save Data Bonuses Monster Hunter Wilds Release Date Monster Hunter Wilds will be released on February 28, 2024, for PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X|S.
Titans S Julius Wood suspended 6 games for PEDs
Team Germany enters the tournament as an underdog who will most likely have to fight to avoid relegation. This doesn’t mean that they won’t have interesting players. Here are some players to watch as the World Junior Championships get underway. Norwin Panocha, D Blueliner Norwin Panocha will enter the tournament as the only drafted player from Germany’s roster. This season, Panocha has lined up for the Green Bay Gamblers in the United States Hockey League (USHL). In 15 games, he has three assists, after starting the season with the Prince Albert Raiders of the Western Hockey League (WHL). Panocha was drafted 205th overall by the Buffalo Sabres in the 2023 NHL Entry Draft . He has also gained valuable experience on the international stage, playing a crucial role for Germany at the 2023 U18s, recording two goals and one assist in six games. His performance highlighted his defensive skills and ability to step up. The Sabres’ prospect will be one to follow in Ottawa. David Lewandowski, F Lewandowski will be a first-time eligible prospect at the 2025 Draft, and his performance this season has certainly caught the attention of scouts. His ability to contribute offensively and his strong hockey sense make him a valuable asset for any team. Lewandowski has also gained experience on the international stage, representing Germany in previous tournaments. Lewandowski, son of former professional player in Germany and Russia, Eduard Lewandowski, isn’t the only player on the roster coming from a dynasty. He started the season at home with the Dusseldorfer EG, failing to score in seven regular-season games. Then, he landed on the Saskatoon Blades, where he was good since the beginning . Lewandowski is expected to play a top-six role for the Germans. Julius Sumpf, F A returnee from last year’s team, Sumpf is having a tremendous season in the Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League (QMJHL), where he produced 37 points in just 29 games for the Moncton Wildcats. In his second year in North America, Sumpf is becoming a force and will do some damage in Ottawa. Sumpf is expected to be among the team’s top scorers, and while at this point his selection at the upcoming draft is unlikely, considering his age, a strong tournament can raise his stock and maybe a team will give him a chance this summer at an offseason camp. Team Germany’s Chances The Germans will only have one goal: avoid relegation. The players and coaches know it, so a slow start is to be expected, to a certain point. Expect the Germans to gear up after a couple of games, to deliver better performances when things start to matter for their ultimate goal. This article first appeared on The Hockey Writers and was syndicated with permission.More than 2600 submissions on Gnarabup resort proposal in Environmental Protection Authority call
The NFL suspended Tennessee Titans safety Julius Wood six games on Tuesday for violating the policy on performing-enhancing substances. There are five games remaining this season for the Titans (3-9), so Wood's suspension will bleed into Week 1 of 2025. Wood, 23, went undrafted this spring and signed with the Dallas Cowboys as a free agent. They waived him in August, and he caught on with the Titans, who claimed him off waivers. Wood appeared in nine games, almost exclusively on special teams, and has recorded two tackles. --Field Level MediaUncertain future: Local school superintendents share thoughts on U.S. Department of Education
Kendrick Lamar surprises with new album 'GNX' LOS ANGELES (AP) — Kendrick Lamar gave music listeners an early holiday present with a new album. The Grammy winner released his sixth studio album “GNX” on Friday. The 12-track project is the rapper’s first release since 2022’s “Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers.” Lamar’s new album comes just months after his rap battle with Drake. The rap megastar will headline February's Apple Music Super Bowl Halftime Show in New Orleans. The 37-year-old has experienced massive success since his debut album “good kid, m.A.A.d city” in 2012. Since then, he’s accumulated 17 Grammy wins and became the first non-classical, non-jazz musician to win a Pulitzer Prize. NBA memo to players urges increased vigilance regarding home security following break-ins MIAMI (AP) — The NBA is urging its players to take additional precautions to secure their homes following reports of recent high-profile burglaries of dwellings owned by Milwaukee Bucks forward Bobby Portis and Kansas City Chiefs teammates Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce. In a memo sent to team officials, a copy of which was obtained by The Associated Press, the NBA revealed that the FBI has connected some burglaries to “transnational South American Theft Groups” that are “reportedly well-organized, sophisticated rings that incorporate advanced techniques and technologies, including pre-surveillance, drones, and signal jamming devices.” Ancient meets modern as a new subway in Greece showcases archaeological treasures THESSALONIKI, Greece (AP) — Thessaloniki, Greece’s second-largest city, is opening a new subway system, blending ancient archaeological treasures with modern transit technology like driverless trains and platform screen doors. The project, which began in 2003, uncovered over 300,000 artifacts, including a Roman-era thoroughfare and Byzantine relics, many of which are now displayed in its 13 stations. Despite delays caused by preserving these findings, the inaugural line has been completed, with a second line set to open next year. Conor McGregor must pay $250K to woman who says he raped her, civil jury rules LONDON (AP) — A civil jury in Ireland has awarded more than $250,000 to a woman who says she was raped by mixed martial arts fighter Conor McGregor in a Dublin hotel penthouse after a night of heavy partying. The jury on Friday awarded Nikita Hand in her lawsuit that claimed McGregor “brutally raped and battered” her in 2018. The lawsuit says the assault left her heavily bruised and suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder. McGregor testified that he never forced her to do anything and that Hand fabricated her allegations after the two had consensual sex. McGregor says he will appeal the verdict. At least 19 people are sick in Minnesota from ground beef tied to E. coli recall U.S. health officials say at least 19 people in Minnesota have been sickened by E. coli poisoning tied to a national recall of more than 167,000 pounds of potentially tainted ground beef. Detroit-based Wolverine Packing Co. recalled the meat sent to restaurants nationwide. Minnesota state agriculture officials reported multiple illnesses and found that a sample of the product tested positive for E. coli, which can cause life-threatening infections. No illnesses have been reported outside of Minnesota. Symptoms of E. coli poisoning include fever, vomiting, diarrhea and signs of dehydration. Actor Jonathan Majors’ ex-girlfriend drops assault and defamation lawsuit against once-rising star NEW YORK (AP) — Jonathan Majors’ ex-girlfriend has dropped her assault and defamation lawsuit against the once-rising Hollywood star after reaching a settlement. Lawyers for Majors and Grace Jabbari agreed to dismiss the case with prejudice Thursday. Jabbari is a British dancer who had accused Majors of subjecting her to escalating incidents of physical and verbal abuse during their relationship. Representatives for Majors didn’t respond to emails seeking comment Friday. Jabbari’s lawyer said the suit was “favorably settled” and her client is moving on with “her head held high.” Majors was convicted of misdemeanor assault and harassment last December and sentenced to a yearlong counseling program. Hyundai, Kia recall over 208,000 electric vehicles to fix problem that can cause loss of power DETROIT (AP) — Hyundai and Kia are recalling over 208,000 electric vehicles to fix a pesky problem that can cause loss of drive power, increasing the risk of a crash. The recalls cover more than 145,000 Hyundai and Genesis vehicles including the 2022 through 2024 Ioniq 5, the 2023 through 2025 Ioniq 6, GV60 and GV70, and the 2023 and 2024 G80. Also included are nearly 63,000 Kia EV 6 vehicles from 2022 through 2024. The affiliated Korean automakers say in government documents that a transistor in a charging control unit can be damaged and stop charging the 12-volt battery. Dealers will inspect and replace the control unit and a fuse if needed. They also will update software. Christmas TV movies are in their Taylor Swift era, with two Swift-inspired films airing this year Two of the new holiday movies coming to TV this season have a Taylor Swift connection that her fans would have no problem decoding. “Christmas in the Spotlight” debuts Saturday on Lifetime. It stars Jessica Lord as the world’s biggest pop star and Laith Wallschleger, playing a pro football player, who meet and fall in love, not unlike Swift and her boyfriend, Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce. On Nov. 30, Hallmark will air “Holiday Touchdown: A Chiefs Love Story.” Instead of a nod to Swift, it’s an ode to family traditions and bonding, like rooting for a sports team. Hallmark’s headquarters is also in Kansas City. Top football recruit Bryce Underwood changes commitment to Michigan instead of LSU, AP source says ANN ARBOR, Mich. (AP) — Top football recruit Bryce Underwood has flipped to Michigan after pledging to play at LSU. That's according to a person familiar with the situation who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to share the recruit’s plans to join the Wolverines. Underwood pinned a post on his Instagram account, showing a post in which On3.com reported that he has committed to Michigan. The 6-foot-3 quarterback played at Belleville High School about 15 miles east of Michigan's campus, and told LSU nearly a year ago he intended to enroll there. Emperor penguin released at sea 20 days after waddling onto Australian beach MELBOURNE, Australia (AP) — The only emperor penguin known to have swum from Antarctica to Australia has been released at sea 20 days after he waddled ashore on a popular tourist beach. The adult male was found on Nov. 1 on sand dunes in temperate southwest Australia about 2,200 miles north of the Antarctic coast. He was released Wednesday from a boat that traveled several hours from Western Australia state's most southerly city of Albany. His caregiver Carol Biddulph wasn't sure at first if the penguin would live. She said a mirror was important to his rehabilitation because they provide a sense of company. Biddulph said: “They’re social birds and he stands next to the mirror most of the time.”History is filled with extraordinary moments that defy imagination in various ways that astonish, inspire, and perplex. While we often celebrate the monumental events that shape nations and transform civilisations, countless extraordinary tales remain hidden, their brilliance obscured by the grander narratives of time. These moments are not just anecdotes but stories of courage, ingenuity, tragedy, and sheer eccentricity—each offering a fascinating glimpse into the complexities of the human experience. From daring feats of resilience to bizarre acts of genius and tragedy, these astonishing tales of forgotten heroes, eccentric inventors, and uncanny coincidences are so remarkable that they read like fiction—but are all real. Read also: John Tinniswood: 112yrs old man who survived Titanic’s era, lived through history According to Ranker, here are 11 most jaw-dropping moments in history you probably missed. Mitchell Red Cloud Jr., a member of the Oglala Lakota, became a legendary figure in the Korean War for his extraordinary courage. In 1950, during a brutal firefight, Red Cloud stood his ground after being hit with multiple bullets. Despite his grave wounds, he ordered his men to tie him to a tree to continue firing, ensuring his unit could retreat. His actions saved lives and helped secure a defensive position. Red Cloud’s sacrifice earned him the Medal of Honor, and his story remains a symbol of selflessness and bravery under extreme conditions. Betty Robinson’s extraordinary story of survival captivated the world. As a teenager, she won Olympic gold in the 4×100 metre relay at the 1928 Olympics. However, her life took a dramatic turn when she was involved in a tragic plane crash in 1931. Initially declared dead, Robinson was later discovered to be alive in a morgue, barely clinging to life. Doctors initially doubted she’d ever walk again, but she fought through unimaginable pain and went on to win another Olympic gold medal in 1936, solidifying her place as one of history’s greatest comeback athletes. Victor Hugo, the legendary French author of Les Misérables and The Hunchback of Notre-Dame, was not only a literary giant but also a man whose death commanded immense respect. In 1885, when Hugo passed away, his funeral became a national event. In an extraordinary show of respect, Parisian brothels—known for their open doors—closed for the day as a tribute. Rumour has it that Hugo, who had a complex relationship with love and sexuality, had been a client of the Brothels, adding an ironic twist to the story of his funeral. Read also: Samson Dauda: The Nigerian-born bodybuilder who made history at Mr. Olympia 2024 James Jameson, heir to the Jameson whiskey fortune, was a man of many contradictions. In 1887, while on an expedition in the Congo, he reportedly paid to witness the cannibalization of a young girl by a tribal group. Jameson, a passionate and controversial figure, later denied his involvement, claiming he was merely a witness. However, the disturbing sketches he made of the event and his participation in documenting the horrific scene left a stain on his legacy, raising questions about his motivations and the ethics of colonial exploration during that era. The Greek philosopher Pythagoras is perhaps best known for the theorem that bears his name – the Pythagorean Theorem. While the sixth-century BCE Ionian lives on with the geometric statement about triangles, Pythagoras is also known for his works on the soul. Pythagoras was also a vegetarian, although how strictly he avoided meat remains unclear. Regardless, Pythagoras had thoughts about food, especially fava beans. Pythagoras didn’t eat beans and forbade his followers from eating them as well. Beans were not allowed because they caused internal distress – gas – and could make it difficult to focus. Farting aside, there were also beliefs in the ancient world that beans were associated with Hades and contained reincarnated souls of the dead. Beans were also associated with poverty because poor people ate them. Another interpretation is that Pythagoras really meant politics when he said beans because voting in ancient Greece was done with beans. But stories about beans essentially causing Pythagoras’s demise contradict this explanation: When Pythagoras was chased by an angry mob, the philosopher refused to cross a field of beans to escape. He either saw them as sacred or simply feared them, but either way, he was slain as a result. The word “boycott” has its origins in 19th-century Ireland, specifically in the context of the Land War. Charles Cunningham Boycott, an English land agent in Ireland, was notoriously harsh in his dealings with tenants. In 1880, a group of Irish farmers, led by local activist Michael Davitt, began a campaign of social banishment against Boycott. They refused to work for him or provide services, effectively isolating him from the community. The term “boycott” was coined as a result, forever linking his name to the idea of collective action against unjust individuals or systems. Read also: Forced migration: Facing the largest global displacement crisis in history Anita Ekberg, the Swedish actress who captured hearts in La Dolce Vita, was not just a beauty icon but also a woman of striking courage. In 1964, she was embroiled in an altercation with a persistent paparazzo outside her home. As he tried to snap pictures of her, Ekberg grabbed a bow and arrow and aimed it at the photographer. Though the arrow missed, the incident added to her reputation as a woman who fiercely defended her privacy. Her boldness only intensified her mystique in the world of film and fashion. John Joseph Merlin, a talented inventor and mechanical engineer, created one of the first roller skates, but his debut of the invention in 1783 ended in disaster. Merlin, known for his eccentric personality, appeared at a London masquerade ball wearing his roller skates while playing the violin. However, his attempt at a graceful performance went horribly wrong when he lost control, crashing into a mirror and injuring himself. While his invention would eventually become the history and foundation for modern roller skating, Merlin’s public mishap remains one of the most memorable moments in the history of the sport. The phrase “computer bug” is often credited to Grace Hopper, a pioneering computer scientist in the 1940s. While working on the Mark II computer at Harvard University in 1947, her team discovered that the machine was malfunctioning due to a moth trapped in one of its circuits. The team carefully removed the insect, and Hopper humorously documented it in her logbook, writing: “First actual case of bug being found.” This moment, though trivial at the time, marked the beginning of the term “computer bug,” which is still used today to refer to technical glitches. Read also: 11 key moments of 2021 Lady Meux, an eccentric and wealthy Victorian woman, became a well-known figure in London’s social scene for her bizarre and extravagant lifestyle. One of her more unusual traits was her fondness for zebras, which she had trained to pull her chariot around London. As a wealthy widow with a passion for the exotic, she owned a private zoo and often hosted lavish events at her residence, where she entertained guests with her collection of wild animals. Her bizarre use of zebras was a public spectacle that cemented her as a symbol of Victorian opulence and eccentricity. In 1835, President Andrew Jackson was presented with a 1,400-pound block of cheddar cheese, a gift from a group of supporters in New York. Rather than let the cheese go to waste, Jackson decided to throw a grand public party at the White House, inviting crowds to sample the massive block. The event quickly descended into chaos, with thousands of visitors swarming the White House, pushing, shoving, and indulging in the cheese. It was a bizarre scene, but it shifted national attention away from a political scandal, cementing Jackson’s reputation as an unconventional president.
JERUSALEM/CAIRO – Israeli leaders hailed on Tuesday a pledge by U.S. President-elect Donald Trump that there would be “hell to pay” in the Middle East unless hostages held in the Gaza Strip were released ahead of his January 20 inauguration. The reaction in Gaza was less enthusiastic. Writing on Truth Social, and without naming any group, Trump said the hostages had to be freed by the time he was sworn in. If his demand was not met, he said: “Those responsible will be hit harder than anybody has been hit in the long and storied History of the United States of America.” During their deadly 2023 attack on Israel, Hamas-led militants captured more than 250 people. Some have been released or freed but around half of them are still in Gaza, although at least a third of these are believed to be dead. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and many of his ministers publicly thanked Trump for his hard-hitting words. “President Trump put the emphasis in the right place, on Hamas, and not on the Israeli government, as is customary (elsewhere),” Netanyahu said at the start of a cabinet meeting. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich said Trump’s statement had made clear to everyone who was in the right, and who was wrong. “This is the way to bring back the hostages: by increasing the pressure and the costs for Hamas and its supporters, and defeating them, rather than giving in to their absurd demands.” Families of the missing hostages also expressed their gratitude. “It is now evident to all: the time has come. We must bring them home NOW,” the families forum said. Israel and Hamas have held on-off negotiations since October 2023, but after an initial hostage release in November, little progress has been made with both sides blaming each other. Responding to Trump’s post, senior Hamas official Basem Naim said Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had sabotaged all efforts to secure a deal that involved exchanging the hostages for Palestinian prisoners held in Israeli prisons. “Therefore, we understand (Trump’s) message is directed first at Netanyahu and his government to end this evil game,” he told Reuters . Gaza political analyst Ramiz Moghani said Trump’s threat was directed at both Hamas and its backer Iran, and warned that it would embolden Israel to not expel Palestinians from swathes of Gaza but also annex the nearby, Israeli-occupied West Bank. “These statements have serious implications for the Israeli war in Gaza and the West Bank,” he told Reuters . Mohammed Dahlan, like hundreds of thousands of Gazans, has had to flee his house because of the fighting and is desperate for the war to end. But he said he was shocked by Trump. “We were hoping that the new administration would bring with it a breakthrough .... but it seems (Trump) is in complete agreement with the Israeli administration and that there are apparently more punitive measures ahead,” he said. (Reuters) Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.The vice chancellor, Tai Solarin University of Education, Ijagun, Ogun State, Professor Oluwole Sikiru Banjo, has appealed to the state government to consider increasing the university’s subvention in light of its current funding challenges. Banjo made the appeal on Wednesday as part of his address at the university’s 16th convocation ceremonies. He, however, noted that government funding alone is insufficient to meet the growing needs of higher education, and therefore also appealed to various stakeholders—alumni, private individuals, corporate organizations, and parents—to assist the best way they could. Banjo also spoke of the urgent need for increased investment in facilities, research equipment, and technology to ensure the quality of education the university aspires to deliver. “Therefore, we earnestly appeal to Your Excellency (Governor Dapo Abiodun) to consider increasing the university’s subvention. This will enable the institution to adequately meet its obligations,” he said. While announcing that this year’s convocation would be his last as TASUED’s vice chancellor, Professor Banjo ran down some of the achievements of the university under his watch. “As vice-chancellor, I have embraced transparent and accountable governance. Working alongside our governing council, we have strengthened the university’s financial standing, diversified our sources of funding, and instituted policies for sustainable growth,” he said. Particularly, Banjo said one of the most notable accomplishments of his administration is the introduction of seven new academic programmes designed to meet emerging global demands and local needs. He also noted that a total of 28 inaugural lectures had been presented since the inception of the university and that 22 of them were hosted during his tenure across various disciplines. He also cited the installation of an Independent Power Project to supply uninterrupted power supply; the completion of the Science Laboratory Complex; and the completion of the University Health Centre extension – all of which were earlier commissioned by the governor, among others. The pro-chancellor, Professor Rahamon Bello, in his address, commended the state government “for the regular release of its subvention to the university.” He, however, noted that the subvention allocated to the university is no longer adequate for its needs. “I like to call on Your Excellency to assist us in reviewing the subvention upwards to enable us to take care of the new salary structure arising from the new minimum wage recently approved for workers in the state,” he said. A total of 32 graduands obtained first-class honours at the event, while Abdulateef Adedamola Adedeji from the Department of Mathematics emerged as the overall best-graduating student with a Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 4.91. ALSO READ FROM NIGERIAN TRIBUNE TASUED graduates first set of 67 PhD students Get real-time news updates from Tribune Online! Follow us on WhatsApp for breaking news, exclusive stories and interviews, and much more. Join our WhatsApp Channel now
Melania Trump reacts to Barron’s viral fame and credits him for dad’s election successNoneConservative Texas lawmakers and power brokers in recent years have criticized university professors for being “woke” activists who indoctrinate college students with far-left teachings and ideas. Now, as state lawmakers head back to the Capitol for the 2025 legislative session, they could limit the influence faculty have over campus culture and curriculum. Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick wants lawmakers to recommend potential changes to the roles of faculty senates, which traditionally take the lead on developing curriculum — and ensuring professors have the academic freedom to teach and research their subject areas without fear of political interference. But conservatives say university curriculum has been infused with ideologies that have helped take higher education in Texas in an overly liberal direction. “If we’re going to refocus our universities on their mission of open inquiry and freedom of speech, we’ve got to take a look at the curriculum and who’s controlling it,” Sherry Sylvester, a fellow at the conservative Texas Public Policy Foundation, told state senators in November. Some Texas professors, though, fear the Republican-controlled Legislature could undermine a long-standing balance of power at universities that’s meant to protect higher education from politicization. Their concerns are that without a proper voice on campus, and a guarantee that faculty have control over their teaching and research, faculty might leave Texas or be less likely to take a job at a Texas university, research would be imperiled, and there would be no checks and balances on university leadership. “There’s very clearly an ideological based attack against higher education and more specifically against faculty,” said Michael Harris, a professor of higher education at Southern Methodist University, a private institution in Dallas. “A place where faculty are most noticeable is a faculty senate.” Here’s a look at faculty senates in Texas and the role they play in higher education. Faculty senates are made up of professors from across a university. The body approves academic policies, curriculum design, faculty hiring and evaluation, and other issues that impact the academic mission. They also relay university-wide news and plans back to their colleagues.. The senates often meet monthly and invite guests from the administration to speak directly to faculty on university issues. “They provide a critical advisory voice on so many things we do on campus,” Texas A&M University President Mark Welsh recently told reporters. “The faculty senate does work that is fundamentally important to what we do as a university.” Faculty at many Texas universities elect a professor in their specific college to serve as a representative on the senate. Faculty will typically elect a chair or co-chairs for a one or two year term. Other faculty members can serve on specific committees that provide recommendations to leadership on specific issues, such as budget, research or facility planning. Faculty say that it’s vital that they have a voice in the decision making processes and that university boards of regents listen to those on the ground when making decisions that impact their work. “At a Fortune 500 company, you wouldn’t want the CEO to make every single decision,” said Harris, the SMU professor. “They don’t have time. People close to the product line or business aspect are best able to do that. The same thing is true here. You want your faculty who teach undergrads to make policy (about undergrads). They know the issues there better.” Bill Carroll served as president of the University of Texas at Arlington’s faculty senate four years ago. He said administrators often haven’t taught in a classroom in years and rely on current faculty to share their experiences that can help shape decision-making. “The faculty senate can provide that input and that information to administration so they can understand how the faculty are perceiving things and understand what faculty needs to do their job in an effective way,” he said. Public universities and university systems are overseen by boards of regents, who are appointed by the governor. Those boards hire university presidents, who serve as a CEO of the institution. While there is nothing in state law that specifies how faculty senates should be organized or function, many universities have adopted rules based on the American Association of University Professors’ guidance that faculty have academic freedom in the classroom and in research. They also rely on the 1966 Statement on Government of Colleges and Universities to guide how boards, presidents and faculty senates interact to operate the university. This statement was developed by national organizations that represent faculty, university presidents and governing boards. The statement spells out who should handle each sector of university operations. “It’s not something that was just drawn up by faculty saying, ‘Here is our best practice, deal with it,’” said Joey Velasco, president of the Texas Council of Faculty Senates who also teaches at Sul Ross State University in Far West Texas. “It really was a joint effort.” Faculty should be responsible for curriculum, methods of instruction and research, the statement reads. If the governing board or university president ultimately makes a decision that goes against the faculty’s wishes, that statement urges the board or president to communicate those reasons with the faculty. “It’s through open dialogue and mutual respect and a shared vision that faculty, administrators and governing boards can ensure their institutions continue to thrive,” Velasco said. Faculty senates found themselves in Patrick’s crosshairs three years ago when he boldly declared he wanted to end tenure for new faculty hires at Texas’ public universities. It was a radical legislative priority condemned by faculty groups across the country. At the time, Patrick was honest about his motivations: he was angry at The Faculty Council at the University of Texas at Austin. The elected group of faculty had passed a nonbinding resolution reaffirming their right to teach critical race theory in the college classroom after the state banned its teaching in K-12 schools. In the statement, faculty at UT-Austin said they will “stand firm against any and all encroachment on faculty authority including by the legislature or the Board of Regents.” Patrick called the professors “Loony Marxists” on social media and accused them of poisoning the minds of college students with such teaching. Ending tenure would make it easier to terminate or punish faculty who were teaching these ideas. Patrick ultimately was unable to outright ban tenure at Texas’ public universities. But Harris said it’s clear that the Faculty Council “poked the bear.” “I do wonder, were it not for that, would it have been as much on the radar,” Harris said, though he feels like the wave of similar actions at universities in other states, such as Florida , would’ve led Texas to take similar routes. Faculty senates largely garner the most attention outside the university when they issue a vote of no confidence in a school leader. These votes are non binding, but are meant as a way for faculty to express their discontent with the direction a president is taking the school. Sometimes, they can lead to the resignation of a university leader. Other times, they’re completely ignored. Last year, most faculty members at West Texas A&M University in Canyon said they lost confidence in the president for a variety of issues, including his decision to cancel a student drag show on campus. Nothing happened after the vote and Walter Wendler remained president. At Stephen F. Austin State University in Nacogdoches, faculty took a vote of no confidence in the leadership of former President Scott Gordon after he accepted an $85,000 pay bump amid a COVID-19 budget shortfall. In that case, the board of regents stood behind Gordon despite the no confidence vote. Still, he stepped down six months later. Nationally, a Chronicle of Higher Education analysis found that a president ends up leaving office within a year of a no-confidence vote about half of the time. This spring, more than 600 faculty at UT-Austin signed a letter stating they had no confidence in President Jay Hartzell’s leadership after police arrested a swath of pro-Palestinian demonstrators protesting the war in Gaza. However, that letter came from the UT-Austin chapter of the American Association of University Professors, not the Faculty Council. Across the country, other states have sought to curtail the power and freedoms of faculty. The Arizona Legislature passed a law that would reduce the power of faculty senates. The bill eliminated language in the state that says the faculty “shall participate in” or “share responsibility” for academic and personnel decisions. Instead, professors could only “consult with” university leaders on decisions. Arizona’s Democratic governor vetoed the bill. When Florida passed a higher education bill that banned diversity, equity and inclusion programs at public institutions last year, it also included language that said public university presidents and administrators are not bound by faculty recommendations or opinions in hiring decisions. In Texas, at a November state Senate Higher Education Subcommittee meeting, Sylvestor, with the conservative Texas Public Policy Foundation, suggested that the Legislature require all faculty senate votes to be public, all meetings be open to the public and live streamed, and all curriculum changes made public. Many faculty senates at Texas universities already livestream their meetings and post agendas and minutes online. Velasco with the Texas Council for Faculty Senates said many votes are taken publicly, too. But there are instances when private voting is better, he said, such as when faculty vote whether to award tenure. This story was originally published by The Texas Tribune and distributed through a partnership with The Associated Press. For copyright information, check with the distributor of this item, The Texas Tribune.