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Ancient Origins of Writing Traced to Mysterious 6,000-Year-Old Symbols
SPHL: QC Storm this weekWhile humans have been making their mark on the surfaces of this Earth for at least tens of thousands of years , it's difficult to pinpoint the exact moment our impulse to record what we saw tipped into what we would consider 'writing'. Now, a team from the University of Bologna in Italy has linked symbols on ancient Mesopotamian seals with an archaic visual communication system called proto-cuneiform ; an art form which would in time evolve into one of the world's first true writing systems. "The close relationship between anci ent sealing and the invention of writing in southwest Asia has long been recognized, but the relationship between specific seal images and sign shapes has hardly been explored," says philologist Silvia Ferrara from the University of Bologna. "This was our starting question: did seal imagery contribute significantly to the invention of signs in the first writing in the region?" Writing is a complex system of rules that tells us how to arrange and interpret symbols to convey all kinds of information, from literal descriptions to abstract thoughts. Long before those rules were invented, symbols representing basic concepts were etched, drawn – or in this case printed – onto a material to share simple ideas, which over time may have become standardized as a lexicon for grammarless 'proto-writing'. The researchers methodically compared the designs they found on ancient cylinder seals with known proto-cuneiform signs. The selection of cylinder seals they analyzed originated before writing emerged in ancient Mesopotamia, through to the proto-literate period. They argue that similarities in the way common artifacts were depicted visually on the cylinder seals – for instance, fringed textiles and netted vessels – share elements with their corresponding proto-cuneiform symbols. The proto-cuneiform signs associated with fringed material, for instance, have triangular forms with multiple vertical lines pointing downward from a piece of 'cloth'. Representations of people weaving on a cylinder seal from the Mesopotamian city of Susa bear a similar form, as do artifacts from the city of Uruk. Similar resemblances can be seen between what seem to be depictions of vessels enveloped in netting on the cylinders and a series of proto-cuneiform signs the researchers suspect carry the same meaning. "The conceptual leap from pre-writing symbolism to writing is a significant development in human cognitive technologies," Ferrara says . "The invention of writing marks the transition between prehistory and history, and the findings of this study bridge this divide by illustrating how some late prehistoric images were incorporated into one of the earliest invented writing systems." Proto-cuneiform is first seen in the archeological record as a means of accounting. It allowed people to track the production and trade of everyday items, especially agricultural and textile items. But before this literacy arose in Mesopotamia, cylinder seals fulfilled that same purpose, allowing people to record trade by 'printing' records into clay tablets. "Our findings demonstrate that the designs engraved on cylinder seals are directly connected to the development of proto-cuneiform in southern Iraq," Ferrara says . "They also show how the meaning originally associated with these designs was integrated into a writing system." This research was published in the journal Antiquity .NACOGDOCHES, Texas (AP) — Kobe Stewart scored 17 points as Presbyterian beat Monmouth 71-61 on Saturday. Stewart had five rebounds and six assists for the Blue Hose (5-3). Kory Mincy added 16 points while shooting 4 for 11 (3 for 8 from 3-point range) and 5 of 6 from the free-throw line while they also had five rebounds. Jamahri Harvey shot 5 for 14, including 3 for 9 from beyond the arc to finish with 13 points. The Hawks (0-8) were led in scoring by Jack Collins, who finished with 25 points, seven rebounds and two steals. Monmouth also got 12 points and two steals from Justin Ray. Madison Durr had seven points. The loss is the eighth straight for the Hawks. Presbyterian took the lead with 4:56 left in the first half and never looked back. Stewart led his team in scoring with 13 points in the first half to help put them ahead 45-32 at the break. Presbyterian used an 8-0 run in the second half to build a 17-point lead at 61-44 with 8:51 left in the half before finishing off the win. The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar .
Still no New French Government For Beleaguered President Macron( MENAFN - EIN Presswire) France Hotel Management Internship Alzea India's France internship offers hands-on hospitality training, cultural immersion, and global networking, preparing students for a successful career. Priyanka Agrawal Alzea India +91 72088 89904 ... Visit us on social media: Facebook X LinkedIn Instagram YouTube Legal Disclaimer: EIN Presswire provides this news content "as is" without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the author above. MENAFN26122024003118003196ID1109033953 Legal Disclaimer: MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.The Golden Hurricane lost to South Florida 63-30 on Saturday, dropping their record to 3-8. The school's decision concludes Wilson's two-year tenure with a 7-16 record, including 3-12 in American Athletic Conference play. “With the rapidly evolving landscape of college athletics, we know the importance of positioning our football program and athletic department to thrive and excel in the upcoming years,” athletic director Justin Moore said in a statement. “Our standard will be to play in bowl games every season, compete for conference titles, and build a program that everyone connected to the Golden Hurricane will be proud of." Wilson spent six years as Indiana’s head coach, going 26-47 from 2011 to 2016. He then joined Urban Meyer’s staff at Ohio State and stayed on under Meyer’s successor, Ryan Day, before taking over at Tulsa. Get poll alerts and updates on the AP Top 25 throughout the season. Sign up here . AP college football: https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-football-poll and https://apnews.com/hub/college-football
Juan Soto says he wants to help Mets 'grow a dynasty' at introductory news conferencePet owner's urgent warning for anyone sleeping with their pet: 'It saved my eye' Alexandra Sedlak shared the PSA after developing an eye infection from her cat She said the steps she took after the incident saved her eyeball READ MORE: Warning to dog owners - do NOT let them sleep in your bed By EMILY LEFROY FOR DAILYMAIL.COM Published: 17:40, 25 November 2024 | Updated: 18:11, 25 November 2024 e-mail 2 View comments Pet owners know there's nothing better than a good cuddle with your furry loved one, but one woman has shared a terrifying warning after developing an eye infection from her cat. Alexandra Sedlak shared the PSA, urging people to be careful - or to even wear goggles if you sleep around pets at nights. 'You're gonna want to hear this,' the cat-owner warned. 'If you have any interest in your health or saving your eyeballs.' Alexandra assured viewers the scary infection didn't come from the cat's claws - but when her car sneezed, retelling the story to TikTok. The content creator explained she was falling sleep on her couch on Christmas a few years ago, when her cat came up to her and touched her nose with hers. 'It's really sweet and she's like getting sleepy and she's doing the like slow blink, looking into my eyes, and I'm feeling so much love for her,' she recalled. Then, out of nowhere, her cat sneezed directly into her eye. 'Mostly I was just shocked and disgusted, and I took my hand and wiped my eye and wasn't going to mess with it, and [try to fall asleep] straight away' she explained. Alexandra Sedlak shared the PSA, urging people to be careful - or to even wear goggles if you sleep around pets at nights (stock image) However, Alexandra said her body 'wouldn't let' her fall asleep. 'Do you know what happens when an animal sneezes straight into your unprotected eye?' she asked. 'I literally felt like - and I am not exaggerating - I felt like my body was rejecting my eye,' she said. 'I felt as though my eye was getting pushed out of it's socket,' she continued. 'Because that's how quickly it got infected.' According to Alexandra, the infection set in within 'seconds.' 'Immediately I knew something was wrong,' the cautious woman explained. 'I went into full blown panic,' she admitted. 'I was terrified I was going to lose my eye.' Alexandra spoke with her mom, who suggested she try eye drops after washing her eyes out with water. The cat-lover said her eye bruised and was swollen, leaving her unable to open her eye for a few days. Alexandra spoke with her mom, who suggested she try eye drops after washing her eyes out with water (stock image) Users commented on the video, many detailing their own experiences READ MORE: Let sleeping dogs lie...with your children! Kids get better quality shut-eye when they sleep next to their pets, study suggests 'I didn't go out in public, it looked like I had been punched in the eye,' she said. She added the steps she took immediately 'preserved her eye.' 'I know that sounds dramatic,' she acknowledged. 'Believe me, if I hadn't gone through this myself I would think it's just the most dramatic story ever.' She captioned video: 'We still snuggle but I wear goggles.' Users detailed their own experiences in the video comments. 'Not an infection, it’s allergies. There are eye drops for it use them that’s what I do for my allergies,' one user wrote. 'Got pinkeye one time from my dog sneezing on my face,' shared someone else. 'Most people are allergic to the saliva on cats if they are allergic.. infections take days or at least hours to form,' chimed in another. According to an LA Times article , if a cat sneezes into a person's eye, it can cause an eye infection. 'I would recommend that you wash your hands thoroughly after handling your sneezing cats and try not to let them sneeze into your face,' Dr Glenn Ericson wrote in the piece. 'Fortunately, the eye infection is treatable with antibiotics.' TikTok Share or comment on this article: Pet owner's urgent warning for anyone sleeping with their pet: 'It saved my eye' e-mail Add comment
FRESNO, Calif. (AP) — A lawyer for former U.S. Rep. TJ Cox of California said the Democrat will plead guilty to two counts of fraud and pay $3.5 million in restitution after federal prosecutors alleged he perpetrated multiple schemes involving businesses he was involved in. Attorney Mark Coleman told the Fresno Bee on Wednesday that Cox wanted to avoid trial and had reached a plea deal that dismissed 24 of the 26 charges he has faced since 2022 . “It’s very stressful for him. It’s very stressful for his family, and he wanted to get it behind him,” Coleman said. At the next hearing in January, Cox will enter guilty pleas to wire fraud and wire fraud affecting a financial institution, the Bee reported. He agrees to pay $3.5 million in restitution and will be required to provide records of his financial standings once his plea changes, according to the deal. He is also subject to whatever sentence and fine is determined to be fair by the court. Prosecutors said Cox stole more than $1.7 million in diverted client payments and company loans and investments. They also alleged Cox created false records and a fraudulent loan guarantee in order to secure a $1.5 million construction loan through a sports nonprofit for improvements at Granite Park, a sports complex in Fresno. “Anytime you’re in business there are thousands of transactions, and people sometimes make shortcuts and it’s something he had to deal with,” Coleman said about the charges. The counts that were dismissed included wire fraud, money laundering and campaign contribution fraud. Prosecutors previously said that without the plea deal, Cox faced prison time and fines ranging from $250,000 to $1 million depending on the count, according to the Bee. The charges date back to business Cox was conducting in 2018, documents show, as well as during his time in Congress. Cox was elected in 2018 by beating out incumbent Republican David Valadao for the seat that covered Kings County and parts of Fresno, Kern and Tulare counties. Valadao retook the seat from Cox in a 2020 rematch. The Associated Press
Luigi Mangione merchandise gains popularity as sweater worn by murder suspect sells out
Photo shows the booth of Lululemon, a first-time exhibitor of the China International Import Expo (CIIE), during the 7th CIIE in east China’s Shanghai. — Xinhua photo BEIJING (Nov 25): Five or six days each week, Ariel Peng heads to the gym after work or during her lunch break, fitting in workouts ranging from 40 minutes to an hour. At 29, Ariel works as a quality manager at a multinational pharmaceutical company in Beijing, balancing a demanding job with her commitment to fitness. Her go-to brand for both workouts and daily wear is lululemon, which she started buying in 2019. “I first liked the Align series because it’s both snug and lightweight, without feeling restrictive,” she explains, referring to the brand’s bestselling leggings. Over the years, Ariel has spent more than 50,000 yuan (about 6,900 U.S. dollars) on the Canadian sportswear brand, appreciating its blend of performance and style. These days, she wears lululemon not just at the gym but also on her commute and in casual settings. “Their designs are comfortable and versatile,” she said. Ariel’s lifestyle reflects a rising trend among Chinese people, especially urban residents, for whom fitness and health have become integral parts of daily routines. For many, gym sessions, yoga classes and outdoor runs are no longer occasional activities but essential habits. This growing fitness culture is reshaping not only how people spend their time but also how they spend their money. Sportswear, once seen as purely functional, has become a key component of everyday wardrobes. Industry reports indicate that China’s sportswear market has grown rapidly, reaching nearly 500 billion yuan in 2023. During this year’s Singles’ Day shopping festival, which ran from October to mid-November, 34 brands in the sports and outdoor category achieved sales exceeding 100 million yuan on Tmall, China’s leading e-commerce platform. Driving new trends The rise of sportswear has sparked new fashion movements in China, such as “athleisure” and “gorpcore.” Many, like Ariel, now wear sportswear or sport-inspired clothing not just for exercise but also to work and social outings. Leggings, tennis skirts and polo shirts have transcended their traditional settings, becoming mainstream fashion staples for their blend of comfort and style. Gorpcore, a trend emphasizing rugged, functional outdoor wear, gained popularity after the pandemic as more people embraced outdoor activities. Jackets designed for mountaineering, weather-resistant shoes and utility backpacks have become fashion essentials. These pieces are prized not only for their practicality but also for their versatility, seamlessly transitioning from outdoor adventures to urban life. For many, the appeal of gorpcore lies in its simplicity, freedom and expression of individuality. Wang Xinyu, a 28-year-old office worker in Shanghai, traded her collection of dresses — once paired with carefully coordinated hairstyles, jewelry and heels — for outdoor-inspired clothing. “It feels liberating,” she said. “Outdoor apparel is versatile, minimalist and still stylish.” Social media platforms like Xiaohongshu have amplified these trends, with users frequently sharing photos of sporty outfits and snapshots from hiking trips. This has created a culture that celebrates active and outdoor lifestyles. The growing demand for sportswear has driven the success of premium brands. Lululemon reported a 34 percent year-on-year increase in net revenue on the Chinese mainland in the second quarter of this year. Since entering the market in 2013, the brand has opened more than 130 stores across China and continues to experience strong growth. Amer Sports, the parent company of outdoor gear maker Arc’teryx, saw a 17 percent year-on-year increase in revenue to 1.35 billion U.S. dollars and a 257 percent surge in profit. Revenue in China surged by 56 percent, making it the company’s fastest-growing market. Presenting new opportunities According to the Outdoor Sports Industry Development Plan (2022-2025), over 400 million people in China participate in outdoor activities. The plan, jointly released by the General Administration of Sport of China and other government departments, underscores the sector’s growing importance. In Western countries, the proportion of people participating in outdoor sports is around 60 to 70 percent of the total population, said Professor Zhou Lijun, director of the National Sports Industry Research Base at Zhejiang University. “With China’s vast population base and the current enthusiasm for outdoor activities, the industry’s potential is enormous if participation continues to grow,” Zhou explained, citing increasing health awareness and supportive government policies as key drivers. The Chinese government’s Healthy China 2030 initiative aims to have 530 million Chinese residents regularly participating in physical exercise by 2030. China’s sportswear market is projected to reach a valuation of 599 billion yuan by 2027. Earlier this month, lululemon made its debut at the China International Import Expo (CIIE). “By 2026, we expect the Chinese mainland to become our second-largest market globally, with over 200 stores,” said André Maestrini, executive vice president for lululemon’s international markets. “We are committed to continued investment in China to unlock further growth potential and engage more people with our brand,” Maestrini added. — XinhuaCustom T-shirt Printing Market is Booming Worldwide | Big Giants Vistaprint, Printify, UberPrints 12-12-2024 08:49 PM CET | Advertising, Media Consulting, Marketing Research Press release from: HTF Market Intelligence Consulting Pvt. Ltd. Custom T-shirt Printing Market HTF Market Intelligence projects that the global "Custom T-shirt Printing" market will expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of "10%" from 2024 to 2032, from "6 Billion" USD in 2024 to "15 Billion" USD by 2032. Stay current with HTF MI's "Custom T-shirt Printing" market research. Examine comprehensive data based on historical landmarks and contemporary trends. The market's size, future trends, current growth factors, historical data, facts, and compound annual growth rate are all thoroughly evaluated in the research report. Marketization is being accelerated by the market study's segmentation by important regions. The market is currently expanding, and some of the major participants from the whole report include Printful, Vistaprint, Printify, Custom Ink, Spreadshirt, Teespring, Zazzle, Threadless, CafePress, T-Shirt Factory, Snaptee, UberPrints, Big Frog, Contrado. Download An Exclusive Sample Report PDF Here 👉 https://www.htfmarketreport.com/sample-report/4097239-2022-2030-report-on-global-custom-t-shirt-printing-market?utm_source=Akash_OpenPR&utm_id=Akash The Custom T-shirt Printing market is segmented by Types (Screen Printing, Digital Printing, Embroidery, Sublimation), Application (Personalized Gifts, Corporate Branding, Fashion Retail, Events) and by Geography (North America, LATAM, West Europe, Central & Eastern Europe, Northern Europe, Southern Europe, East Asia, Southeast Asia, South Asia, Central Asia, Oceania, MEA). Definition: Involves the creation of personalized T-shirts using methods like screen printing, direct-to-garment (DTG), and sublimation. This market serves individuals, businesses, and events, with demand driven by trends in self-expression and branding. The growth of e-commerce and on-demand printing platforms has significantly boosted this market globally. Dominating Region: • North America Fastest-Growing Region: • Asia-Pacific Market Trends: •Direct-to-Garment Printing, Sustainability in Printing Market Drivers: •E-commerce Growth, Demand for Personalized Products, Tech Advancements Market Challenges: •Supply Chain Costs, Environmental Impact, Market Saturation Browse 100+ market data Tables and Figures spread through Pages and in-depth TOC on " Custom T-shirt Printing Market by Type (Screen Printing, Digital Printing, Embroidery, Sublimation), by End-Users/Application (Personalized Gifts, Corporate Branding, Fashion Retail, Events), Organization Size, Industry, and Region - Forecast to 2032". Early buyers will receive 10% customization on comprehensive study. In order to get a deeper view of Market Size, competitive landscape is provided i.e. Revenue (Million USD) by Players (2019-2024), Revenue Market Share (%) by Players (2019-2024) and further a qualitative analysis is made towards market concentration rate, product/service differences, new entrants and the technological trends in future. Have a query? Market an enquiry before purchase 👉 https://www.htfmarketreport.com/enquiry-before-buy/4097239-2022-2030-report-on-global-custom-t-shirt-printing-market?utm_source=Akash_OpenPR&utm_id=Akash The titled segments and sub-section of the market are illuminated below: In-depth analysis of Custom T-shirt Printing market segments by Types: Screen Printing, Digital Printing, Embroidery, Sublimation Detailed analysis of Tank Container Shipping market segments by Applications: Personalized Gifts, Corporate Branding, Fashion Retail, Events Geographically, the detailed analysis of consumption, revenue, market share, and growth rate of the following regions: • The Middle East and Africa (South Africa, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Israel, Egypt, etc.) • North America (United States, Mexico & Canada) • South America (Brazil, Venezuela, Argentina, Ecuador, Peru, Colombia, etc.) • Europe (Turkey, Spain, Turkey, Netherlands Denmark, Belgium, Switzerland, Germany, Russia UK, Italy, France, etc.) • Asia-Pacific (Taiwan, Hong Kong, Singapore, Vietnam, China, Malaysia, Japan, Philippines, Korea, Thailand, India, Indonesia, and Australia). Buy Now Latest Edition of Custom T-shirt Printing Market Report 👉 https://www.htfmarketreport.com/buy-now?format=1&report=4097239?utm_source=Akash_OpenPR&utm_id=Akash Custom T-shirt Printing Market Research Objectives: - Focuses on the key manufacturers, to define, pronounce and examine the value, sales volume, market share, market competition landscape, SWOT analysis, and development plans in the next few years. - To share comprehensive information about the key factors influencing the growth of the market (opportunities, drivers, growth potential, industry-specific challenges and risks). - To analyze the with respect to individual future prospects, growth trends and their involvement to the total market. - To analyze reasonable developments such as agreements, expansions new product launches, and acquisitions in the market. - To deliberately profile the key players and systematically examine their growth strategies. FIVE FORCES & PESTLE ANALYSIS: In order to better understand market conditions five forces analysis is conducted that includes the Bargaining power of buyers, Bargaining power of suppliers, Threat of new entrants, Threat of substitutes, and Threat of rivalry. • Political (Political policy and stability as well as trade, fiscal, and taxation policies) • Economical (Interest rates, employment or unemployment rates, raw material costs, and foreign exchange rates) • Social (Changing family demographics, education levels, cultural trends, attitude changes, and changes in lifestyles) • Technological (Changes in digital or mobile technology, automation, research, and development) • Legal (Employment legislation, consumer law, health, and safety, international as well as trade regulation and restrictions) • Environmental (Climate, recycling procedures, carbon footprint, waste disposal, and sustainability) Get 10-25% Discount on Immediate purchase 👉 https://www.htfmarketreport.com/request-discount/4097239-2022-2030-report-on-global-custom-t-shirt-printing-market?utm_source=Akash_OpenPR&utm_id=Akash Points Covered in Table of Content of Global Custom T-shirt Printing Market: Chapter 01 - Custom T-shirt Printing Executive Summary Chapter 02 - Market Overview Chapter 03 - Key Success Factors Chapter 04 - Global Custom T-shirt Printing Market - Pricing Analysis Chapter 05 - Global Custom T-shirt Printing Market Background or History Chapter 06 - Global Custom T-shirt Printing Market Segmentation (e.g. Type, Application) Chapter 07 - Key and Emerging Countries Analysis Worldwide Custom T-shirt Printing Market Chapter 08 - Global Custom T-shirt Printing Market Structure & worth Analysis Chapter 09 - Global Custom T-shirt Printing Market Competitive Analysis & Challenges Chapter 10 - Assumptions and Acronyms Chapter 11 - Custom T-shirt Printing Market Research Methodology Key questions answered • How Global Custom T-shirt Printing Market growth & size is changing in next few years? • Who are the Leading players and what are their futuristic plans in the Global Custom T-shirt Printing market? • What are the key concerns of the 5-forces analysis of the Global Custom T-shirt Printing market? • What are the strengths and weaknesses of the key vendors? • What are the different prospects and threats faced by the dealers in the Global Custom T-shirt Printing market? Thanks for reading this article; you can also get individual chapter-wise sections or region-wise report versions like North America, LATAM, Europe, Japan, Australia or Southeast Asia. Nidhi Bhawsar (PR & Marketing Manager) HTF Market Intelligence Consulting Private Limited Phone: +15075562445 sales@htfmarketreport.com About Author: HTF Market Intelligence Consulting is uniquely positioned to empower and inspire with research and consulting services to empower businesses with growth strategies. We offer services with extraordinary depth and breadth of thought leadership, research, tools, events, and experience that assist in decision-making. This release was published on openPR.
NEW DELHI (AP) — India’s former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, widely regarded as the architect of India’s economic reform program and a landmark nuclear deal with the United States, has died. He was 92. Singh was admitted to New Delhi’s All India Institute of Medical Sciences late Thursday after his health deteriorated due to a “sudden loss of consciousness at home,” the hospital said in a statement. “Resuscitative measures were started immediately at home. He was brought to the Medical Emergency” at 8:06 p.m., the hospital said, but “despite all efforts, he could not be revived and was declared dead at 9:51 p.m.” Singh was being treated for “age-related medical conditions,” the statement said. A mild-mannered technocrat, Singh became one of India’s longest-serving prime ministers for 10 years and leader of the Congress Party in the Parliament's Upper House, earning a reputation as a man of great personal integrity. He was chosen to fill the role in 2004 by Sonia Gandhi, the widow of assassinated Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi . But his sterling image was tainted by allegations of corruption against his ministers. Singh was reelected in 2009, but his second term as prime minister was clouded by financial scandals and corruption charges over the organization of the 2010 Commonwealth Games. This led to the Congress Party’s crushing defeat in the 2014 national election by the Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party under the leadership of Narendra Modi . Singh adopted a low profile after relinquishing the post of prime minister. Prime Minister Modi, who succeeded Singh in 2014, called him one of India’s “most distinguished leaders” who rose from humble origins and left “a strong imprint on our economic policy over the years.” “As our Prime Minister, he made extensive efforts to improve people’s lives,” Modi said in a post on the social platform X. He called Singh’s interventions in Parliament as a lawmaker “insightful” and said “his wisdom and humility were always visible.” Rahul Gandhi, from the same party as Singh and the opposition leader in the lower house of the Indian Parliament, said Singh’s “deep understanding of economics inspired the nation” and that he “led India with immense wisdom and integrity.” “I have lost a mentor and guide. Millions of us who admired him will remember him with the utmost pride,” Gandhi wrote on X. The United States offered its condolences, with Secretary of State Antony Blinken saying that Singh was “one of the greatest champions of the U.S.-India strategic partnership.” “We mourn Dr. Singh’s passing and will always remember his dedication to bringing the United States and India closer together,” Blinken said. Born on Sept. 26, 1932, in a village in the Punjab province of undivided India, Singh’s brilliant academic career took him to Cambridge University in Britain, where he earned a degree in economics in 1957. He then got his doctorate in economics from Nuffield College at Oxford University in 1962. Singh taught at Panjab University and the prestigious Delhi School of Economics before joining the Indian government in 1971 as economic advisor in the Commerce Ministry. In 1982, he became chief economic adviser to the Finance Ministry. He also served as deputy chair of the Planning Commission and governor of the Reserve Bank of India. As finance minister, Singh in 1991 instituted reforms that opened up the economy and moved India away from a socialist-patterned economy and toward a capitalist model in the face of a huge balance of payments deficit, skirting a potential economic crisis. His accolades include the 1987 Padma Vibhushan Award, India’s second-highest civilian honor; the Jawaharlal Nehru Birth Centenary Award of the Indian Science Congress in 1995; and the Asia Money Award for Finance Minister of the Year in 1993 and 1994. Singh was a member of India’s Upper House of Parliament and was leader of the opposition from 1998 to 2004 before he was named prime minister. He was the first Sikh to hold the country’s top post and made a public apology in Parliament for the 1984 Sikh Massacre in which some 3,000 Sikhs were killed after then-Prime Minister Indira Gandhi was assassinated by Sikh bodyguards. Under Singh, India adopted a Right to Information Act in 2005 to promote accountability and transparency from government officials and bureaucrats. He was also instrumental in implementing a welfare scheme that guaranteed at least 100 paid workdays for Indian rural citizens. The coalition government he headed for a decade brought together politicians and parties with differing ideologies that were rivals in the country’s various states. In a move hailed as one of his biggest achievements apart from economic reforms, Singh ended India’s nuclear isolation by signing a deal with the U.S. that gave India access to American nuclear technology. But the deal hit his government adversely, with Communist allies withdrawing support and criticism of the agreement growing within India in 2008 when it was finalized. Singh adopted a pragmatic foreign policy approach, pursuing a peace process with nuclear rival and neighbor Pakistan. But his efforts suffered a major setback after Pakistani militants carried out a massive gun and bomb attack in Mumbai in November 2008. He also tried to end the border dispute with China, brokering a deal to reopen the Nathu La pass into Tibet, which had been closed for more than 40 years. His 1965 book, “India’s Export Trends and Prospects for Self-Sustained Growth,” dealt with India’s inward-oriented trade policy. Singh is survived by his wife Gursharan Kaur and three daughters. Associated Press writer Sheikh Saaliq in New Delhi contributed to this report.
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Shakespeare’s timeless masterpiece, Othello, cautions us that certain things are better left unaltered. The phrase “Let it alone” serves as a poignant reminder to preserve the integrity of what is already exemplary. The recent proposal by the Federal Executive Council to rechristen the University of Abuja as Yakubu Gowon University is a decision that should evoke profound concern among all patriotic Nigerians, particularly those who cherish national unity, identity, and educational heritage. The idea of renaming the University of Abuja to Yakubu Gowon University since the announcement has sparked intense debate and protests from students, indigenous people of Abuja and other stakeholders. This move is part of a larger political culture of changing the names of tertiary institutions to immortalize politicians, which is highly unnecessary, especially for schools that have lived for decades. Universities are brands that have been built over decades, and changing their names can confuse foreign employers and academic institutions. For instance, if a university’s name were to be changed, it would be a challenge for graduates and raise questions about the validity of certificates issued to graduates. Moreover, renaming a university can be a complex issue. It’s essential to consider the potential consequences and ensure that any changes align with the institution’s values and mission. This is particularly important for institutions like the University of Abuja, which has established a strong reputation over the years and is known for unity and scholarship. It’s puzzling why anyone would risk damaging the reputation of a university for political gain. There are alternative ways to honour notable individuals, such as naming national symbols, or infrastructure after them. This approach would allow us to recognise the contributions of notable individuals without compromising the identity and heritage of our universities. This rejection is not driven by political resentment and as a matter of fact, this writer is a staunch member of APC but by a desire to maintain the integrity and recognition of Nigerian universities worldwide. In Social Exchange Theory, we are taught that honouring individuals for their achievements in office is not a bad omen. However, considering Gowon’s role in establishing five universities in his time as Head of State between 1966-1975, including the University of Jos, wouldn’t it be more fitting to rename the University of Jos after him instead? This approach would not only honour Gowon’s legacy but also acknowledge his contributions to the establishment of the University of Jos. Renaming the University of Abuja, on the other hand, might be seen as erasing its unique identity and the values it represents. Isn’t it worth considering alternative ways to honour Gowon’s legacy, such as naming a new institution, a major landmark after him or the unity schools? This argument isn’t about diminishing General Yakubu Gowon’s remarkable legacy. As a revered elder statesman and gentleman, he played a pivotal role in preserving Nigeria’s unity during the Civil War, and his contributions undoubtedly deserve recognition and immortalisation. Chief Obafemi Awolowo, the best President we never had was deservedly honoured with the rechristening of the former University of Ife after him in 1987. This was in acknowledgement of his visionary endeavour in conceptualising and developing that iconic institution, which once held the record of arguably the most beautiful university campus in Africa. The erstwhile University of Ife was one of Awolowo’s several heroics in the consummation of the growth of the old Western region. However, honouring Gowon’s legacy shouldn’t come at the expense of dismantling an institution that embodies the very unity he fought tirelessly to preserve. Related News Deputy Senate president restates N'Assembly's commitment to oversight functions Group hails Badaru over collaboration with security agencies AFAN advocates increased support for Bayelsa farmers The National Assembly, stakeholders of higher education and every Nigerian who believes in the power of unity and heritage, I implore you to reject this proposal as students and stakeholders of the University of Lagos resisted and rebelled against the attempt by the government of former President Goodluck Jonathan to re-designate the school after Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola in 2012. They voted loud and clear for the retention of the preexisting name and brand. The University of Abuja is not just another institution; it is a living embodiment of our national aspiration. Its name carries the weight of hope, and possibility, a Nigeria that can transcend its differences. The name ‘University of Abuja’ is more than a geographical descriptor. It is a brand, an identity, a promise. It stands shoulder to shoulder with legendary institutions like the University of Nigeria and the University of Lagos — each name a testament to something greater than a single individual. As always said by the immediate past Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof Abdul-Rasheed Na’Allah, UniAbuja is a number one University in Nigeria by accident of location. This institution is more than just a place of learning; it is a symbol of national unity, federal character, and collective identity. To rename it is to undermine these principles and send the wrong message to future generations. Let us preserve the University of Abuja for what it represents: a beacon of hope, unity, and national identity. Let us honour our past leaders in ways that do not compromise the core values and identities that bind us together as a nation. The University of Abuja must remain the University of Abuja. By preserving this name, we safeguard the sanctity of our national unity and ensure that future generations inherit an institution where the diverse spirit of Nigeria is celebrated and truly represented. The proposed name change is not just an administrative decision; it is a potential erosion of a carefully constructed symbol of national unity. The University of Abuja represents what Nigeria can be: diverse, integrated, and respectful of all its constituent parts. Let us protect this and let the University of Abuja remain the University of Abuja — a beacon of hope, a sanctuary of national integration, and a testament to what we can achieve when we see beyond our differences. Our unity is sacred. Our institutions are its guardians. The University of Abuja must remain exactly what it is: A University for all Nigerians. Universities displace indigenous people when you rename universities at a whim. You erase the history of people who identify with that place and what it stands for. I would suggest a national call for a stop to this tradition, not just UniAbuja. Instead, the government can build new infrastructure in those universities and name them after politicians like “Yakubu Gowon Digital Development Mega Library” or Hostels. To President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, you’re a father of the nation and a respected democrat. All the students of the University of Abuja are standing for your mandate, not for the gain of political goodies but in firm belief of your capacity. We hope you will have a rethink on this issue at hand. You have done so well for the nation’s educational sector, with the largest percentage given to education in the 2025 budget, which no one has done before you. In this light, we implore you not to give UniAbuja a new name, let it alone. •Sulayman Nafiu, a student of Law at the University of Abuja, writes via [email protected]CHICAGO -- Six days after missing an open streaking toward the end zone in Minnesota, rookie quarterback took advantage of a second chance at the same play. Nearing halftime of Chicago's Week 16 matchup with the , Williams saw Allen throw a head fake and execute the same double move to create separation. This time, Williams didn't hesitate. He lasered a pass that Allen caught in stride for a 45-yard touchdown. It was one of Williams' best throws of the season despite the Bears suffering their ninth straight loss. That has been the narrative of Williams' season in general: individual growth set against the backdrop of team dysfunction and failure. Consider that despite the second-longest losing streak in franchise history, Williams has set an NFL record for the most passes (326) without an interception by a rookie QB, and if he continues on this pace, he'll end up with third-most passing yards in Bears history. "Keep swinging," coach Thomas Brown said of Williams' approach. "Shooters shoot, and he definitely shoots, which I appreciate. So I'm going to give him opportunities to shoot." Against the Lions, Williams recorded his fourth game with at least 300 passing yards and two passing touchdowns. It ties the mark set by in 2018 for the most such games in a single season by a Bears QB over the past 20 years. Williams accomplished that after putting two first-half fumbles behind him to lead three scoring drives on a day when the Bears' offense looked the best it had in weeks. Their 14 first-half points were the most since a Week 6 win over Jacksonville. In recent weeks, Williams has accumulated the majority of his passing production while playing from behind. While Williams was quick to admit he doesn't put much stock in his stats, the type of growth the rookie is exhibiting in a lost season isn't lost on his teammates. "You have moral wins, moral victories," Allen said. "It's good to score. "Obviously, just being able to be productive on offense, getting better, Caleb being able to get more reps, seeing different things on defense and ultimately just being able to get better throughout the season [is important]." Through 15 games, Williams has thrown for 3,271 yards, sixth most in a single season in franchise history. If he continues his season average of 218.1 passing yards over Chicago's next two games against Seattle (8:15 p.m. ET Thursday, Prime Video) and Green Bay (Jan. 5), he'll finish with roughly 3,707 yards. Williams might not erase the Bears' notoriety as the only NFL franchise to never have a 4,000-yard passer or a QB who passed for 30 touchdowns, but considering he has changed offensive coordinators and head coaches midseason while being sacked a league-high 60 times, his transition to the NFL has included unique obstacles. "There's no question that this guy is talented," Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson said last week. "I remember standing on the sideline last game [against the Bears on Nov. 28] and you can hear the ball whistle by you. "He's got quite a fastball, has some creativity to him, can extend plays and is accurate down the field as well." Johnson, who is one of the hottest names this coaching cycle, is expected to be pursued by the Bears. And the presence of Williams is perhaps the most attractive aspect of the job. In fact, Williams has played some of his best football in front of Johnson. In two games against Detroit, Williams has 681 passing yards, five touchdown passes and no interceptions. According to NFL Research, Williams has lost nine starts in which he hasn't thrown an interception, which is the most such losses in a single season since 1950. His 326 passes without turning the ball over is 100 attempts more than the previous rookie streak held by the Arizona Cardinals' (211). The New York Jets' has the overall record at 402. There are specific areas where Williams has demonstrated the most growth. In Week 16, the rookie had his best game as a downfield passer, going 6-of-8 for 160 yards and a touchdown on throws of 15-plus air yards. He routinely got the ball into the hands of his playmakers, throwing a career-high 286 yards to his wide receivers. Allen (694 receiving yards), (826) and (701) form the only group of wide receivers to be in the top 50 in receiving yards. And with a heavy dose of play-action against the Lions, Brown's playcalling has aided the quarterback in matching a career-high with 12 play-action pass attempts in which he threw for 109 yards and a touchdown. All of that has added up to a season never experienced by a rookie quarterback in Chicago. And with two weeks remaining, Williams is taking aim at cleaning up the details. When asked for specific areas he has focused on improving before heading into the offseason, the quarterback zeroed in on several issues. "Fumbles that I've had for 2-3 weeks now, I think turnovers, they're obviously a part of the game, but trying to eliminate those only helps our chances of winning," said Williams, who has lost four fumbles on the season. "Being able to just keep being efficient, the most that I can, and that doesn't just mean when I throw the football. That's with all the alerts, the time, the play clock, making sure cadence and things like that, helping offensive linemen out, whatever the case may be."By JOSH FUNK, AP Business Writer OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Investor Warren Buffett renewed his Thanksgiving tradition of giving by announcing plans Monday to hand more than $1.1 billion of Berkshire Hathaway stock to four of his family’s foundations, and he offered new details about who will be handing out the rest of his fortune after his death. Buffett has said previously that his three kids will distribute his remaining $147.4 billion fortune in the 10 years after his death, but now he has also designated successors for them because it’s possible that Buffett’s children could die before giving it all away. He didn’t identify the successors, but said his kids all know them and agree they would be good choices. “Father time always wins. But he can be fickle – indeed unfair and even cruel – sometimes ending life at birth or soon thereafter while, at other times, waiting a century or so before paying a visit,” the 94-year-old Buffett said in a letter to his fellow shareholders. “To date, I’ve been very lucky, but, before long, he will get around to me. There is, however, a downside to my good fortune in avoiding his notice. The expected life span of my children has materially diminished since the 2006 pledge. They are now 71, 69 and 66.” Buffett said he still has no interest in creating dynastic wealth in his family — a view shared by his first and current wives. He acknowledged giving Howard, Peter and Susie millions over the years, but he has long said he believes “hugely wealthy parents should leave their children enough so they can do anything but not enough that they can do nothing.” The secret to building up such massive wealth over time has been the power of compounding interest and the steady growth of the Berkshire conglomerate Buffett leads through acquisitions and smart investments like buying billions of dollars of Apple shares as iPhone sales continued to drive growth in that company. Buffett never sold any of his Berkshire stock over the years and also resisted the trappings of wealth and never indulged in much — preferring instead to continue living in the same Omaha home he’d bought decades earlier and drive sensible luxury sedans about 20 blocks to work each day. “As a family, we have had everything we needed or simply liked, but we have not sought enjoyment from the fact that others craved what we had,” he said. If Buffett and his first wife had never given away any of their Berkshire shares, the family’s fortune would be worth nearly $364 billion — easily making him the world’s richest man — but Buffett said he had no regrets about his giving over the years. The family’s giving began in earnest with the distribution of Susan Buffett’s $3 billion estate after her death in 2004, but really took off when Warren Buffett announced plans in 2006 to make annual gifts to the foundations run by his kids along with the one he and his wife started, as well as the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. Related Articles Warren Buffett’s giving to date has favored the Gates Foundation with $55 billion in stock because his friend Bill Gates already had his foundation set up and could handle huge gifts when Buffett started giving away his fortune. But Buffett has said his kids now have enough experience in philanthropy to handle the task and he plans to cut off his Gates Foundation donations after his death. Buffett always makes his main annual gifts to all five foundations every summer, but for several years now he has been giving additional Berkshire shares to his family’s foundations at Thanksgiving. Buffett reiterated Monday his advice to every parent to allow their families to read their will while they are still alive — like he has done — to make sure they have a chance to explain their decisions about how to distribute their belongings and answer their children’s questions. Buffett said he and his longtime investing partner Charlie Munger, who died a year ago, “saw many families driven apart after the posthumous dictates of the will left beneficiaries confused and sometimes angry.” Today, Buffett continues to lead Berkshire Hathaway as chairman and CEO and has no plans to retire although he has handed over most of the day-to-day managing duties for the conglomerates dozens of companies to others. That allows him to focus on his favorite activity of deciding where to invest Berkshire’s billions . One of Buffett’s deputies who oversees all the noninsurance companies now, Greg Abel, is set to take over as CEO after Buffett’s death.
Richard Parsons, Prominent Black Executive Who Led Time Warner and Citigroup, Dies at 76NASSAU, Bahamas — St. John’s played arguably its best 20 minutes of the season in the first half against No. 13 Baylor on Thursday night in the Baha Mar Hoops Championship semifinal. Another half and two overtimes later, the Red Storm were slapped with one of their most gut-wrenching losses in recent memory. “The only time it’s value is when you win,” coach Rick Pitino said. “When you lose, there’s no value to it.” After Zuby Ejiofor missed two free throws with four seconds left in the second overtime, Baylor’s Jeremy Roach sank a buzzer-beating three-pointer to hand St. John’s a 99-98 loss. “I just knew that if they’d miss the two free throws, I’d have a chance to redeem myself,” said Roach, a Duke transfer who missed the front end of a one-and-one that could have sealed the game in regulation. After watching the Red Storm blow an 18-point first-half lead, Pitino was miffed by the collapse but reserved his sharpest remarks for the officials. Before Ejiofor went to the line for the two free throws that could have sealed the win for St. John’s, Baylor coach Scott Drew initiated a replay review, saying a St. John’s player held a Baylor player. Pitino thought that stoppage iced Ejiofor and contributed to the two misses. He didn’t think Drew should have done it and didn’t think the officials should have bought it. “I don’t know what to say. The referees didn’t do a very good job tonight,’’ Pitino said. “Icing my free-throw shooter there at the end was totally unethical. You can’t do something like that. [The referee] said the coach said we held him, which we did not do, clear as day. It’s an unethical move. I don’t like it. But that’s not the reason we lost.” The Red Storm (4-1) hit 14 shots from three-point range in their bid to win a matchup of ranked teams for the first time since 2015. Instead, they will face Virginia — which lost to No. 11 Tennessee, 64-42, on Thursday night — in a consolation game Friday. The Red Storm, who stepped up a notch in competition during Sunday’s win over New Mexico, jumped another level Thursday night in the Caribbean, the team’s first appearance in the Bahamas since the 2021 Battle 4 Atlantis. Ejiofor had 22 points, 10 rebounds and five blocked shots. Aaron Scott added 20 points, including a key three-pointer in the second overtime. Scott sank five three-pointers, including three in the final 7:48 of regulation. What was anticipated to be St. John’s stiffest test thus far this season proved to be exactly that. The Bears (4-1) — who were led by Norchad Omier’s 24 points and 10 rebounds and Roach’s 20 points — took their first lead on a jumper by Jayden Nunn with 2:41 to play. Kadary Richmond’s jumper in the paint with seven seconds left tied the score at 77 and sent the game to overtime. Richmond hit a pair of free throws with 25 seconds left in the first extra period to send the game into a second overtime. He finished with 14 points and seven assists. St. John’s built a 44-30 halftime lead, thanks to disruptive and dominating defense and a three-point onslaught. Baylor got going in the second half, hitting 10 three-pointers after the break, including three by former Long Island Lutheran star Jalen Celestine. VJ Edgecombe, a two-time Newsday Player of the Year out of LuHi, had 10 points and four rebounds. “We broke down defensively in the second half,” Pitino said. “This is a team that had only taken 14 mid-range shots the whole year. It’s threes or the rim. And we gave up some three-point shots that nailed us in the end.”
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