
The Chicago Bulls, mired in a three-game losing skid, welcome the visiting Milwaukee Bucks on Saturday for the second matchup between the Central Division counterparts in six days. Milwaukee returns to Chicago for the second time this week, having routed the Bulls 112-91 on Monday despite missing All-Stars Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard. Brook Lopez and Khris Middleton picked up the slack, each posting 21 points with NBA scoring leader Antetokounmpo sidelined with an illness. Milwaukee was again without Antetokounmpo and Lillard -- the latter having missed the last four games with a calf injury and also dealing with an illness -- in Thursday's 111-105 loss to Brooklyn. "Ain't no excuses," Bobby Portis said to reporters following Thursday's game. "We lost, they won, we move on Saturday. Get a win, feel good, go into Indiana (and) the new year. That's it." The Bucks have two more games remaining in this calendar year -- on Saturday at Chicago and Tuesday at Indiana. Through the 2024 portion of their schedule, the Bucks have ridden highs and lows, with a seven-game winning streak from Nov. 18 through Dec. 3, not long after they lost six straight during a 2-8 start. Antetokounmpo's 32.7 points per game leads the league, and Lillard is averaging 25.7 points and 7.5 assists a contest. However, Milwaukee nears 2025 just three games above .500 and ranked in the middle-to-lower half of the NBA in a variety of team categories. Among them is scoring, with the Bucks averaging 112.5 points per game -- the 16th-highest output in the league, and down 6.5 points from their 2023-24 average. Milwaukee's scoring defense has improved from a season ago, however, down from a 116.4-point per game yield in 2023-24 to 111.2 in 2024-25. The Bucks delivered one of their best defensive performances of the season in Monday's win at Chicago, limiting the Bulls to 91 points on 36-of-90 shooting (40 percent) from the floor, including 10-of-48 (20.8 percent) from 3-point range, and forcing 15 turnovers. Despite its output on Monday, Chicago is averaging 117.7 points per game -- sixth-most in the NBA -- behind leading scorers Zach LaVine (22.3 ppg), Nikola Vucevic (20.7) and Coby White (17.7). The Bulls' struggles have come on the defensive end as they sit five games below .500 amid their current losing streak. After surrendering 141 points in an eight-point loss at Atlanta on Thursday, Chicago is surrendering the league's second-highest opponent output at 121.8 points per game. Chicago heads into Saturday's matchup coming off an especially frustrating fourth quarter of defense, when they gave up 50 points in the period to squander a 17-point lead. "We're going to have to look at that and figure out what we need to do to weather the storm," said LaVine, who scored a season-high 37 points in the loss. "That just can't happen. It's unacceptable." Some potential good news for the Bulls after the loss is that versatile swingman Josh Giddey, averaging 11.9 points, 6.4 rebounds and a team-high 6.9 assists per game, could be available after missing the last four games with an ankle injury. "A lot is going to depend on how he responds (after a workout Thursday) and then probably get another one in (on Friday)," Bulls coach Billy Donovan told reporters of Giddey's progress toward a return. --Field Level Media
The fight for the future of the Liberal Party of Canada has begun. It is no longer a question of whether Prime Minister Justin Trudeau should resign — for most of caucus, that question is settled. It may even be settled for the prime minister. He is in British Columbia, possibly taking the 2024 version of a walk in the snow, a run down the ski hill. What is now up for debate is who should pick the next Liberal leader and what that means for the party. On Monday, the Star has learned, the Liberals’ Atlantic caucus met over Zoom and came to the same conclusion as their Ontario counterparts did last Saturday: Trudeau needs to go. They tasked their caucus chair, Nova Scotia MP Kody Blois, to report the message to the Prime Minister’s Office and ask for a national caucus meeting in early January for MPs to decide whether an interim leader should be appointed. Cabinet ministers who were on the call did not dissuade their colleagues. In fact, according to three sources who spoke on condition of anonymity, Finance Minister Dominic LeBlanc focused on what should happen after Trudeau’s resignation. LeBlanc argued the party didn’t have time for a lengthy leadership race and left the impression that caucus should pick the next leader. (LeBlanc did not respond to a request for comment.) It’s a self-interested argument, of course. LeBlanc, affable and experienced, would be a strong contender for leader — if not the most likely — from caucus’s standpoint. He wouldn’t be the first to make the argument. After Chrystia Freeland’s surprise resignation as finance minister , prime minister Jean Chrétien’s former chief of staff, Eddie Goldenberg, called for Trudeau to resign effective Jan. 6 and for Freeland to be selected by the caucus and cabinet as the next permanent leader. Goldenberg, in an essay on Nationalnewswatch.com , argued the party didn’t have three or four months to hold a contest and it should suspend a normal leadership convention. For Canadians who lived through the last time the Grits anointed their leader, it may seem a strange argument to make. Could the Liberal Party of Canada’s 2011 near-death experience have been avoided if the party hadn’t chosen to crown Michael Ignatieff leader in 2009 and instead allowed a one-member-one-vote contest? Road testing leaders doesn’t necessarily mean a better candidate or a better election performance. Stéphane Dion was elected by the party in 2006, beating out Ignatieff, and his lacklustre performance during the leadership campaign was pretty much duplicated during the 2008 election. But a leadership contest does allow for a preview of what’s to come. What’s more, it injects energy, allows for new entrants, for new ideas, for new data points to be collected be it money, or emails and phone numbers of potential Liberal voters. In a Friday morning email to caucus colleagues, obtained by the Star, Calgary MP George Chahal expressed frustration at the current state of affairs and argued against a caucus vote. “Any rational individual in a position of leadership would resign,” and “any group of individuals providing advice based on data and logic would reach the same conclusion,” Chahal wrote, lamenting the past six months that had been spent trying to make the case as respectfully as possible. “Unfortunately, a small cabal have (sic) decided to pursue a reckless strategy of mutual assured political destruction. It is clear the Liberal Party of Canada is not their priority,” he wrote. Trudeau no longer had the support of caucus, Chahal expressed, and “to maintain some dignity” the prime minister should immediately tender his resignation. Caucus, he wrote, should elect an interim leader who could head the government for the next 60 to 75 days, and he called for the party — through its governing board — to start the immediate process for an expedited leadership process that is transparent and democratic. “I and other members (of) caucus do not support a secret conclave where caucus chooses the new leader,” Chahal wrote. Some MPs fear that Trudeau will hang on as long as possible so that LeBlanc’s argument — that there isn’t enough time for a leadership race — comes to fruition. That could leave Trudeau in place — the Conservatives seem intent on ensuring that happens — or ensure a caucus insider is appointed. The Prime Minister’s Office seems resistant to the idea of appointing an interim leader, further fuelling those concerns. This week, Trudeau’s former principal secretary Gerald Butts weighed in, arguing that Goldenberg’s argument would “confirm Canadians’ worst instincts about the Liberal party. “ ‘There’s no time for democracy’ is a tell of an argument,” Butts wrote on Substack . “It’s also bad strategy. If you want to know who can play hockey, put on a hockey game. It doesn’t matter who you think you support at this moment, we’ll all have a more seasoned view if we see these people in live action. “Competitions create better competitors. In politics, leadership campaigns make for better general election campaign teams. They train people, test ideas, build resilience,” he wrote. There is self-interest there, too. Butts is close with former Bank of Canada governor and likely Liberal leadership candidate Mark Carney. But he’s not wrong. Battle lines are being drawn, camps are organizing and attempting to sway the party executive and caucus to enact rules that benefit their interest. What’s clear is that the longer Trudeau takes to make his decision, the more Canadians will know he’s less interested in building the Liberal movement he spoke of in 2013 when he was elected party leader, and more interested in returning to “the old ways of doing politics” he used to denounce.Donald Trump said Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates has asked to visit him at the president-elect’s Mar-a-Lago home in Florida. Part way through a Truth Social post on Friday morning, Trump referred to his Mar-a-Lago home, saying “Bill Gates asked to come, tonight. We miss you and x! New Year’s Eve is going to be AMAZING!!! DJT.” Trump provided no further details. Emails and calls to the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation asking about a potential Gates visit to Mar-a-Lago were not immediately answered. Gates has been critical of Trump in the past, particularly over his first administration’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, but Gates publicly congratulated Trump on his November 5 election victory and expressed hope they could work together. Some of the biggest tech sector companies in the US have pledged donations to Trump’s inaugural fund as they seek more favourable relations with the Republican president-elect before he takes office on January 20. In November, Meta Platforms CEO Mark Zuckerberg visited Trump at Mar-a-Lago. Meta has donated $US1 million ($A1.6 million) to Trump’s inaugural fund, a company spokesperson told Reuters on December 12. Other tech companies that are donating $US1 million ($A1.6 million) to Trump’s inaugural fund include Amazon and Uber Technologies .
NAIROBI, Kenya (AP) — Three African politicians seeking to head the African Union detailed their plans on Friday for regional security amid conflicts and political coups while strongly advocating for inter-Africa trade among other issues. Raila Odinga of Kenya, Mahamoud Ali Youssouf of Djibouti and Richard Randriamandrato of Madagascar are seeking to be elected as chairperson for the 55-member state African Union. They participated in a two-hour debate Friday in Ethiopian capital Addis Ababa in which they all advocated for two permanent seats for African countries in the U.N. Security Council to effectively represent the continent with the youngest population. Odinga said that two permanent seats with veto power were “a must for Africa” and that this was “only fair” since the continent has more than 50 countries. Randriamandrato urged member states to cease the opportunity and “speak with one voice on the choice of who will represent Africa in the UNSC.” The three are seeking to convince most African countries before the February election to succeed African Union Chairperson Moussa Faki, who has served for two terms. The African Union has faced several challenges that include conflict in member countries and political coups that have seen five member states expelled from the union, making regional security a major theme in Friday’s debate. Youssouf said that regional security could be enhanced if the resources for a regional standby force were increased to reduce the overreliance on foreign partnerships for resources. “When there is no unity of purpose among neighboring countries peace will be compromised,” Youseff said. Randriamandrato encouraged countries to take charge of their internal security while cautioning that foreign military bases should be “a thing of the past” because they “could be a source of conflict.” Despite the continent’s young population of 1.3 billion that is set to double by 2050, regional trade has faced challenges that were addressed in the Friday debate. Odinga said that Africa had a “huge domestic market” that it could leverage on for economic transformation by opening up opportunities for trade between African countries. Youssouf proposed a payment compensation system that would ensure countries don't lose out while trading in different currencies adding, “are we going to have a single currency, why not?” Randriamandrato said that regional economic blocs like the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa had a huge role to play in easing inter-Africa trade. The African Union has several proposed reforms on its structure and leadership aimed at achieving its purpose, and all candidates promised to implement the reforms if elected. Youssouf said that key reforms in the union were facing a funding bottleneck and that “it has to change,” adding that he wouldn't impose it on member states but would “advocate for it.”ST. JOHN'S, N.L. - Former Newfoundland and Labrador premiers say a draft energy agreement signed Thursday with Quebec marks a historic break in a long-standing political standoff. Read this article for free: Already have an account? To continue reading, please subscribe: * ST. JOHN'S, N.L. - Former Newfoundland and Labrador premiers say a draft energy agreement signed Thursday with Quebec marks a historic break in a long-standing political standoff. Read unlimited articles for free today: Already have an account? ST. JOHN’S, N.L. – Former Newfoundland and Labrador premiers say a draft energy agreement signed Thursday with Quebec marks a historic break in a long-standing political standoff. Brian Tobin, who was premier from 1996 to 2000, describes the sweeping new energy contract as a long-awaited “breaking of political gridlock” between Newfoundland and Labrador and Quebec. Tobin says he has no doubt that ending the 1969 deal that gave Quebec nearly free electricity from Labrador was a top priority for every premier since Joey Smallwood, the man who signed the contract. Roger Grimes ran the province between 2001 to 2003, and he says all of the province’s premiers wished they had found a willing partner in Quebec to reshape the agreement. Pointing to the province’s unsuccessful attempts to challenge the deal in court, he says Quebec Premier François Legault had no obligation to throw out the contract but saw a good opportunity and showed political will. Winnipeg Jets Game Days On Winnipeg Jets game days, hockey writers Mike McIntyre and Ken Wiebe send news, notes and quotes from the morning skate, as well as injury updates and lineup decisions. Arrives a few hours prior to puck drop. The two provinces signed an agreement in principle Thursday under which Quebec will pay higher rates for power and partner with Newfoundland and Labrador on new hydroelectric projects in Labrador. This report by The Canadian Press was first published Dec. 13, 2024. Advertisement AdvertisementSt. Vincent de Paul making a difference in the lives of ArizonansSources: Hernández, Dodgers agree to $66M deal
Council of Ministers values State Council’s role in public serviceThe AP Top 25 men’s college basketball poll is back every week throughout the season! Get the poll delivered straight to your inbox with AP Top 25 Poll Alerts. Sign up here . BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (AP) — Riley Allenspach and Trey Fort scored 15 apiece in Samford’s 72-47 victory over Austin Peay on Sunday. Allenspach shot 6 of 12 from the field and 3 for 4 from the line for the Bulldogs (9-2). Fort went 5 of 9 from the field (5 for 8 from 3-point range). The Governors (4-5) were led by Darius Dawson with 18 points. Akili Evans added 10 points and three steals. ___ The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar .Mortuary Equipment Market to Experience Robust Growth, Projected to Reach USD 1,807.0 Million by 2033 at a 5.8% of CAGR 12-13-2024 07:39 PM CET | Health & Medicine Press release from: Future Market Insights Mortuary Equipment Market The global mortuary equipment market is expected to witness strong growth, with an average compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.8% between 2023 and 2033. Valued at USD 1,025.8 million in 2023, the market is projected to reach USD 1,807.0 million by 2033. This growth is driven by several factors, including an increase in mortality rates, the rising geriatric population, and the expanding healthcare infrastructure, including morgues and hospitals. The demand for mortuary equipment has been bolstered by a combination of factors, including an aging population and the growing prevalence of chronic diseases. These developments are leading to higher mortality rates, which in turn are increasing the need for advanced mortuary equipment to manage and process bodies efficiently. Additionally, advancements in technology, particularly automation in mortuary procedures like embalming, autopsy, and storage, are contributing to the rising demand for specialized equipment in this sector. Technologically advanced mortuary equipment is reducing processing times and improving convenience for professionals in the field. The integration of automated solutions into body embalming, autopsy, storage, and transportation procedures has streamlined workflows and increased operational efficiency in morgues and hospitals. As a result, the industry is seeing a rise in the adoption of these advanced solutions, which not only enhance the effectiveness of mortuary operations but also address the growing need for high-quality, reliable equipment. As the global mortality rate continues to rise, driven by an increasing elderly population and the prevalence of chronic diseases, the demand for mortuary equipment is expected to grow steadily. The continued development and adoption of innovative technologies in this field will further fuel the market's expansion, presenting significant opportunities for key players in the industry. Request a Sample of this Report Now: https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/sample/rep-gb-14975 Key Takeaways: The mortuary equipment market is projected to grow from USD 1.03 billion in 2023 to USD 1.81 billion by 2033, at a CAGR of 5.8%. Key drivers include an aging population, increased chronic diseases, and expanding healthcare facilities. Automation and advanced technologies in mortuary procedures are boosting market demand. The market's growth is expected to continue as mortality rates rise and new innovations emerge in mortuary equipment. Key Drivers of Market Growth Increasing Mortality Rates: The demand for mortuary equipment is rising due to a combination of factors such as a decreasing lifespan, the growing geriatric population, and the prevalence of chronic diseases. These factors contribute to higher mortality rates, thereby increasing the need for effective mortuary services and equipment. Expansion of Healthcare Facilities: The establishment and expansion of healthcare units, including morgues and hospitals, are driving the demand for mortuary equipment. As healthcare infrastructure improves, there is a corresponding need for advanced equipment to handle deceased bodies safely and efficiently. Automation in Mortuary Procedures: The penetration of automation in various mortuary processes-such as body embalming, autopsy, storage, and transportation-enhances efficiency and reduces processing times. This trend is contributing to increased demand for technologically advanced mortuary equipment. Technological Advancements: Innovations in mortuary equipment are improving the convenience and effectiveness of operations for professionals in the field. Advanced technologies are being integrated into equipment to streamline processes and ensure better handling of deceased bodies. Research and Development Initiatives: Increased investments in research and development programs related to mortuary services are leading to enhanced product offerings and improved operational efficiencies within the industry. Focus on Infection Control: With heightened awareness around infection control, especially post-pandemic, there is an increased emphasis on using high-quality mortuary equipment that minimizes contamination risks during handling and storage. How is the Competition in the Mortuary Equipment Market? Emerging trends in the mortuary equipment market are shaping the market's competitive analysis. The companies have increased their manufacturing units as covid-19 has triggered the demand for mortuary equipment. These manufacturing units have been set up to fill that demand. Governments integrating with death care service providers and mortuary equipment systems to tackle the high COVID-19 bodies that need special embalming and storage has also changed the competitor's approach to R&D. Some key players shaping the mortuary equipment market are SM Scientific Instruments Pvt. Ltd., KUGEL Medical GmbH & Co. KG, Leec Ltd, Thermo Fisher Scientific, Inc., and Mortech Manufacturing Company, Inc. Recent Developments in the Mortuary Equipment Market SM Scientific has completed its 50 years of service and has added new equipment like Body Display Cabinets, Organ Weighing Scale, and Evidence Drying Cabinet. This has pushed the demand for mortuary equipment in new regional spaces. Leec Ltd has introduced its set of mortuary equipment like body storage, post-mortem spaces, dissecting, and organ weight calculator, pushing the demand for mortuary equipment in the country. Key Players SM Scientific Instruments Pvt. Ltd. KUGEL medical GmbH & Co. KG Leec Ltd Thermo Fisher Scientific, Inc. Mortech Manufacturing Company, Inc. Key Segments By Product: Trolleys Refrigeration Units Autopsy Platforms and Equipment Embalming Workstation Dissection Table Other Accessories By Region: Latin America Europe Asia Pacific Middle East and Africa Explore FMI's Related Ongoing Coverage on Healthcare Market Insights Domain: Nucleic Acid Testing Industry - https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/nucleic-acid-testing-market Neurological Biomarkers Industry - https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/neurological-biomarkers-market Ultrasound Conductivity Gels Industry - https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/ultrasound-conductivity-gels-market About Future Market Insights (FMI) Future Market Insights, Inc. (ESOMAR certified, recipient of the Stevie Award, and a member of the Greater New York Chamber of Commerce) offers profound insights into the driving factors that are boosting demand in the market. FMI stands as the leading global provider of market intelligence, advisory services, consulting, and events for the Packaging, Food and Beverage, Consumer Technology, Healthcare, Industrial, and Chemicals markets. With a vast team of over 400 analysts worldwide, FMI provides global, regional, and local expertise on diverse domains and industry trends across more than 110 countries. Contact Us: Future Market Insights Inc. Christiana Corporate, 200 Continental Drive, Suite 401, Newark, Delaware - 19713, USA T: +1-347-918-3531 For Sales Enquiries: sales@futuremarketinsights.com Website: https://www.futuremarketinsights.com LinkedIn| Twitter| Blogs | YouTube This release was published on openPR.
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Believe it or not, Cowboys might have hope yet after chaotic win at WashingtonTHIRUVANANTHAPURAM: People are tired of queuing in front of the vendors' office as the e-stamping process is not fast enough. Stamp papers, except those of 50 rupees and those for larger amounts, are not available. The information including the name and address of the parties involved in the title deed registration and the purpose of registration should be uploaded by the vendors to 'PEARL', the portal of the Registration Department. After that, the further steps including payment should be completed using the OTP number sent to the mobile phone of the title deed party. Delay in receiving the OTP number due to slow server speed is the major bottleneck. The e-stamp for registration purposes can be printed in colour and for non-registration purposes in black and white. Hundreds of people come in front of the vendors for both types of needs. Not all vendors have embraced the e-stamping system. Printed Stamp papers above 10 rupees are still allowed to be used, but Stamp papers are not available everywhere. Stamp papers are required for many purposes on a daily basis like for rent agreement, giving bond to students to join various courses, buying a vehicle etc. People can get an e-stamp for any amount but the time it takes to get it is bothering them. TRAI regulation New regulations introduced by TRAI (Telecom Regulatory Authority of India) for services are also causing delay in receiving OTP. TRAI introduced restrictions on SMS messages sent by government and private organizations under digital ledger technology from December 1. The requirement is that TRAI's approval is required for the format in which the SMS is sent. The template for this should be registered.
Syracuse and Georgetown meet for the 100th time Saturday when the Orange host the Hoyas in the latest installment of their classic rivalry. As former Big East Conference rivals, Syracuse and Georgetown have staged many memorable contests over the decades with the Orange holding a 54-45 all-time advantage. The teams still meet annually despite the Orange now playing in the Atlantic Coast Conference. Syracuse has won five of the last seven meetings, including a 12-point triumph in Washington D.C. last December. "It definitely felt like a Big East game," Hoyas coach Ed Cooley said after last season's contest. This time around, Georgetown (7-2) is coming off a 73-60 loss to West Virginia in which the team shot under 38 percent from the floor and committed 14 turnovers. "When the ball has music, when the ball is singing, unbelievable music happens," Cooley said. "The music is the play. The music is body movement and screening an open shot. We didn't have good music today." Thomas Sorber is the team's leading scorer at 15.4 points per game, although the freshman has failed to reach that average in six of the last seven games. Syracuse (5-4), meanwhile, is coming off a 102-85 win over Albany despite the absence of leading scorer J.J. Starling (19.8 points), who is out indefinitely with a hand injury. In his stead, freshman Donnie Freeman supplied 24 points on 10-of-13 shooting despite playing just 23 minutes due to an illness. "Whatever (illness) he has, he needs to keep that, if he can keep playing like, whatever he was feeling," Orange coach Adrian Autry joked. Syracuse will be looking for more success from 3-point range after hitting 6-of-15 (40 percent) against Albany. In their previous game -- a five-point loss to Notre Dame -- the Orange failed to make a 3-pointer for the first time in more than a decade. No Syracuse player has made more than 11 3-pointers this season -- and even that player (Chris Bell) is only shooting 25 percent from long distance. --Field Level MediaAmazon is basically the internet’s secret stash of clever stuff, and we’ve rounded up 60 of the coolest finds you didn’t even know existed. These genius picks are all about upgrading your life, solving those little annoyances, or just making everyday things way easier—all without blowing your budget. Whether it’s a game-changing gadget or a tool you’ll wonder how you lived without, these affordable gems are perfect for gifting or treating yourself. Get ready to discover a whole new level of “how is this under $25?” A cordless table lamp you can take anywhere Take this literally anywhere you go and enjoy its multiple cool features—such as the stunning contemporary look, dimmable light, rechargeable design, and touch control operation. 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A portable white noise machine with 16 sounds to choose from How cool is this tiny The portable gadget is so small it’ll fit right in your pocket, but it delivers maximum function with 16 different sounds and 32 volume levels to choose from, wireless operation, and four timer modes. Use it to fall asleep while away traveling or boost productivity during the work day — it’s a great little investment for its calming power. This set of scrub brushes that attach to your drill Power through cleaning by attaching this five-pack of to your drill. The set also comes with an attachment that extends your reach, making it easy to get into tight spaces. There are several versions of the brushes in the listing for cleaning various surfaces. This genius power strip with a built-in phone stand Charge up to six devices at once with this clever that has three three-pronged outlets, two USB-A outlets, and one USB-C outlet. The pyramid shape ensures plugs don’t block other outlets and it even has a built-in stand for your phone so you can see the screen while its charging. This set of stainless steel pruning sheers to trim plants & hedges Trim plants and hedges like a pro with this cheap yet efficient set of . The set includes gardening sheers with three types of stainless steel blades—straight, serrated, and curved—so you can trim everything from rose bushes to light branches. The sheers have ergonomic handles for comfortable use and a locking mechanism to prevent accidental cuts. A smooth faux leather keyboard mat with scratch-resistant suede backing Transform your home office with this that has suede backing for a nonslip grip. It has a smooth surface that eliminates the need for a mouse pad and is waterproof and easy to clean for maximum practicality. The mat protects your desk against scratches, stains, and spills and it’s available in multiple stylish colors to fit your work space. A tumbler lid organizer to declutter kitchen drawers Declutter kitchen drawers with this genius space-saving hack: a . Attach it to the bottom of a shelf or upper cabinet with the provided self-adhesive strips or mounting screws, and store up to five lids on each organizer. The streamlined stainless steel construction gives it a clean and modern look, and the organizer’s anti-drop design ensures lids stay put and don’t fall off. This easy-to-clean waterproof doormat to trap dirt before it enters your home Use this to trap dirt and keep your floors nice and clean. The mat has an absorbent top side and a nonslip bottom that prevents shifting, and you can easily clean it by shaking it off, rinsing it with water, or vacuuming it. It’s suitable for indoor and outdoor use, and besides being highly durable, its grooved pattern and beveled border add a lovely decorative accent to any space. A fridge deodorizer that lasts for 10 years Keep your fridge fresh for a whopping ten years with this . 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This multi-purpose surface swiper that your countertops will thank you for With an overall score of 4.6 out of five stars, shoppers are loving this that comes with both a brush and a squeegee. The squeegee works to redirect spills and water puddles back into the sink, while the brush, equipped with nylon bristles, tackles crumbs. It’s an easy way to tackle small messes before they become more problematic. A bird bath fountain that’s conveniently solar-powered Instead of dealing with unsightly extension cords that mess up your landscaping, get this that doesn’t require an outlet. It features seven different nozzle styles so you can choose from a variety of spray scenes for your outdoor space. The bird bath’s glass panels reflect light and attract hummingbirds to drink and play in the fountain. This chamomile-flavored mouthwash for before bed An egg slicer with 3 different cutting modes that also works on fruits & veggies Save time, get uniform pieces, and make meal prep easier with this genius . It has sharp stainless steel blades that effortlessly cut through hard-boiled eggs (as well as fruits and veggies) and offers three slicing modes to choose from. A receptacle container maintains a clean worktop and allows you to transfer the chopped eggs into a dish easily. Once you’re done, simply toss the slicer in the dishwasher. These washable & reusable microfiber rags for a streak-free clean Clean any surface with these that deliver a streak-free clean and attract dust better than other materials. The lint-free rags are reusable, have seamless edges to prevent scratches, and come in a tissue box-style pack of 50 for easy dispensing. Best of all, they are machine-washable which makes them a more sustainable option for both the environment your wallet. Plus, it doesn’t hurt that you can get them in tons of fun colors from green to pink. This accurate meat thermometer with a devilish twist Who says a meat thermometer needs to be purely utilitarian? With this devilish , you’ll have a laugh in addition to perfectly cooked meats. The digital screen is easy to read and can be configured to Fahrenheit or Celsius. And the probe has a protective cover for the tip, so you can safely store it in a drawer or hang it on your fridge or grill with the magnetic back. This stainless steel rib rack that cooks meat more evenly Make sure your barbecue is a complete hit with this , which is designed to let both smoke and heat travel up either side for maximum flavor. These racks are strong and sturdy and can fit ribs of multiple sizes. They can help cook meat faster and more evenly, and couldn’t be easier to clean. Each pack comes with one rack that can hold up to five ribs. A soap dispenser & sponge holder to tidy up your kitchen counter Made from durable resin with a faux marble design that looks quite elevated, this is a three-in-one powerhouse for your kitchen. It’s a soap dispsner, sponge holder, and dish brush holder so all of your dishwashing essentials are together and nearby. It even comes with a nonslip pad on the bottom in case of any drips. A plastic pie carrier that keeps baked goods fresh Keep baked goods fresh inside this that has a hinged lid to create an airtight seal. It’s microwave, dishwasher, fridge, and freezer-safe for maximum practicality and in addition to pies, it can also be used for quiches, cookies, cakes, and other delicious bakes. The carrier is lightweight and easily portable and comes highly recommended by customers who comment on its great value and deep size. A drink organizer & dispenser with adjustable rows Make your fridge like the convenience store of your dreams with this drink . It features five rows that you can adjust to the width you need. What makes this especially useful is that it pushes your drinks right to the front as you grab one, keeping your items at the front of the fridge. No more lost, flat LaCroix for you. A long & slim drying wand for hard-to-reach areas Whether you’re cleaning a narrow tumbler or baby bottle, use this to get to the container’s hard-to-reach areas. It’s long enough to reach the base and slim enough to fit through a narrow opening, leaving no water spots and reducing gunk and scum buildup. The wand dries things quickly and efficiently, and it comes with three standard and three small individually wrapped, reusable drying heads. A portable iPhone charger you can use for 2 devices simultaneously Charge two devices simultaneously with this . The power bank delivers a 50% charge in just 40 minutes and its design cleverly doubles as a phone holder when taking selfies or watching videos. The charger is compact and lightweight for on-the-go use, making it perfect for travel or taking it to the office. These soundproof pads to prevent squeaking & wall damage Attach these to a headboard to prevent annoying squeaking and potential wall damage. The felt strips are self-adhesive and don’t require drilling, and they’re just the right size and thickness for a discreet look and maximum impact. Besides beds, you can also use them on sofas, armchairs, cabinets, and any other furniture that comes into contact with the wall. These pet grooming wipes for a quick clean between baths For a quick clean between baths, use these on your pet’s paws, face, and body. The plant-based wipes are infused with chamomile extract, vitamin E, and deodorizers to clean your furry pal, restore a shiny coat, and soothe sensitive skin. They’re large enough to cover a big surface area quickly and come in a resealable dispensing pouch so you can easily take them to the dog park or on a road trip. This anti-slip grippy pad that’s great to keep in your car Never lose your phone in the car again, thanks to this . Two pads come per pack, and they’re a great way to hold onto electronics and accessories ranging from remotes to eyeglasses. Crafted using malleable PU gel, each pad is reusable and easy to place. To install it, all you need to do is press down on it for five seconds. This fun game for grown-ups that’s a spin on a childhood classic If you loved UNO as a kid, get this that’s the grown-up version of the childhood favorite. It includes four different colored glasses made from shatterproof plastic for an adult twist on the classic, and they are conveniently dishwasher-safe for easy post-party cleanup. The game works the same way as the card version — get rid of your cards as fast as you can then shout DUNZO! A rotating nonslip phone mount that allows for full access while you ride Attach this to your bike and you’ll have full access to your phone while you ride. Its nonslip interior securely locks your phone in place without blocking the camera or buttons, and the mount rotates 360 degrees so you can choose the best viewing angle. In addition to a bike, you can also attach it to a motorcycle, treadmill, or stroller for ultimate versatility. These growing bags that support healthy roots Prevent root rot and support healthy growth with these breathable . They are constructed out of non-woven fabric, can be reused for multiple growing seasons, and have a sturdy structure thanks to a double-stitched design and reinforced handles. Use the bags for fruits, veggies, herbs, and flowers, whether inside, outside, or in a greenhouse. A lightweight survival tent to bring on your next hiking trip When you’re heading into the great outdoors, bring along this just in case you need it. The two-person tent folds into a lightweight bag that easily attaches to your backpack. Made from durable, waterproof polyester, the shelter helps trap your body heat and can protect you from wind, rain, and snow. These silicone spatulas that won’t scratch your cookware Use these to stir, scrape, and fold ingredients without scratching up your cookware. The four-piece set consists of a small, large, spoon, and jar spatula all of which are made of heat-resistant silicone that won’t melt or warp. The bendable heads allow for flexibility and the spatulas’ ergonomic design makes them lightweight yet sturdy enough to flip pancakes and mix cookie dough. A waterproof AirTag holder that slides onto your dog’s collar Keep tabs on your pup using an Apple AirTag and this that attaches to your dog’s collar. Available in various colors, the holder slides onto most collars and provides water and impact resistance for your tracker. Plus, the low-profile design creates a comfy fit that won’t dangle and disturb your dog during playtime. These adhesive pen holders so you never lose your tools Declutter and organize your workspace with these . They have an antislip design for a tight grip and feature two holes — one for a wider pen and another for a thinner pencil. To use them on a desk, wall, or fridge, wipe the surface clean, peel off the adhesive backing, then press the holder in place. According to one five-star , “The adhesive seems strong but hasn’t ruined any surfaces, which is always a worry of mine when attaching anything.” These mesh grill bags that prevent food from sticking to the grates Instead of using aluminum foil or oil on your grill, you can use these to prevent food from sticking and falling through the grates. Heat-resistant up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit, the bags can be used with gas, charcoal, and electric grills. They’re also built to last — just wash them with soap and water and use them for countless BBQ meals. These space-saving food containers that are lockable & leakproof Perfect for food prep or for storing the remainders of dinner, this set of will keep things locked and airtight. Designed to help you save precious pantry space, each of the five color-coded containers fit together to help you find exactly the size you’re looking for. They’re both freezer-safe and microwave-safe. These cabinet knobs with a fingerprint-proof finish for a cheap kitchen makeover For a quick and cheap kitchen makeover, get these that’ll instantly update your cabinets. They have a solid metal construction to withstand daily wear and tear and a fingerprint-proof finish for a neat look. The 20-piece set is easy to install and includes all the necessary hardware for the fastest home improvement project ever. You can also get them in satin nickel, oil rubbed bronze, and brass. This rust-proof magnetic paper towel holder to help clear your countertops Mount this on the fridge to clear countertops and maximize space in a small kitchen. It holds a standard roll of paper towels and is designed with square corners to stop them from unraveling. The holder is made from rust-proof stainless steel for durability and can also be attached to an outdoor grill, a microwave, or mounted inside a cabinet. This stainless steel kitchen composter that’s built to last If you’re looking to get into composting, this is a great way to start. Crafted from stainless steel and built to last a lifetime, this bin will hold days worth of compostable organic waste. It’s leakproof, easy to clean, and comes with a replaceable charcoal filter that will last up to six months. A cleaning solution & microfiber cloth to make your screens crystal clear again You probably don’t clean your screens and electronic devices as often as you should. With that said, you also shouldn’t use just anything to do the job. This has everything you need including a microfiber cloth and an alcohol-free solution in a 16-ounce spray bottle with over 1,500 sprays. Use it on laptop screens and monitors, tablets, phones, and more. A lightweight body wash to made with natural ingredients for sensitive skin Opt for this if you have dry, itchy, cracked, or flaky skin. It’s made with soothing essential oils like aloe vera, tea tree, and peppermint — as well as nourishing vitamins such as E and C that can treat common skin ailments including ringworm. The odor-eliminating properties will leave you with a fresh clean feeling that lasts all day. A phone for your car with MagSafe technology Regular phone mounts are already pretty ingenious. However, this uses MagSafe technology to hold your phone securely in place. It clips right onto your air vents and features 360-degree rotation. Simple, effective, and durable — this car mount checks all the boxes. This pop-up practice net for golf that you can assemble in your backyard Practice your golf swing from the comforts of your own home with this . Crafted from nylon with a pyramid design for the target, it only takes minutes to setup in a backyard or at a park. Great for lob shots, pitch shots, and flop shots, it also makes a great gift for the golf enthusiast in your life. This 2-pack of plate dividers perfect for picky eaters & runny food Whether you have a picky eater or just often serve up dishes that are delicious (but a little runny), these will do the trick. Also great for portion control and to help with motor skills, these dividers suction right to your plate. They’re available in three colors and will make you wonder why nobody thought to invent them sooner. This cute gnome dish brush that makes chores more fun Ditch the dull sponges in favor of this . Aside from being cute, it’s also sturdy, durable, and ready for some serious scrubbing. Arriving with its own drip tray, it’s designed with an ergonomic grip to make chores more fun as well as more comfortable. It’s also dishwasher-safe and makes a fantastic gift. This 7-piece set of stainless steel measuring spoons that won’t dent or bent A new set of is a great way to inspire yourself to bake more — and, this particular seven-piece set may even make the process a little easier. Crafted from stainless steel, these spoons are designed to not bend, break, crack, or hold onto the flavors of the ingredients you put inside. Engraved on each handle are measurements in both custom and metric form. The set even includes a leveler to help ensure you’re putting in the exact amount of ingredients for a better bake. This wireless doorbell with a battery life of up to 3 years This is a great way to greet guests. With a battery life of up to three years, it’s easy to install and is powerful enough to send a chime you’ll hear throughout your home. It comes with 52 different ringtones to choose from and four volume levels, making it easy to customize to your own preferences. A durable wooden board for creating charcuterie spreads This wooden is a must if you host and entertain often. It measures 18 inches long and 12 inches wide and has three deep grooved compartments with plenty of room to create a delectable charcuterie spread. Made from durable bamboo, this board is scratch-resistant and easy to clean — just use mild soap & warm water. This foot lotion that helps prevent sweaty, smelly feet If you’re concerned about sweaty or odorous feet, this can provide some peace of mind. Just a dime-sized amount of this lotion helps reduce sweat while soothing feet, made with eucalyptus oil and other moisturizing ingredients. Free from paragons, phthalates, formaldehydes, and sulfates — as well as cruelty free — this formula is gentle to use. “This product is worth the money,” one wrote. “I no longer have smelly, sweaty feet!” These cooling pads that keep your laptop slightly elevated Keep your laptop cool on the go using these that are easily portable. Magnetic and compact, the set of two pads allows your laptop to rest at a slight angle, letting air flow through and offering a comfortable typing angle. The silicone covering prevents scratches, and the bottom suction keeps your laptop from moving. These 4-in-1 pet grooming gloves that can help remove tricky knots Make bath time more enjoyable for you and your pet with these that are great for cats, dogs, and even horses. It’s a 4-in-1 product with the ability to help with grooming, de-shedding, bathing, and massaging. Each finger comes with long nubs to help gently eliminate deep knots, and they’re machine-washable for an easy clean when you’re done. The gloves are universally sized and a great way to de-shed your furry friend. These popular packing cubes that you can buy in 15 different colors Before your next vacation, you might want to grab a set of these . With eight cubes per set varying in size, they’ll help you stay more organized during your trip, especially if you’re sharing suitcase space with someone else. Each cube is designed from twill polyester, and each zippered cube contains mesh so that fabrics and belongings can breathe. You can get them in one of 15 colors. This double oven mitt shaped like a dachshund Avoid getting burned with this dog-shaped , which protects both hands while you’re cooking or baking. With the ability to withstand heat up to 482 degrees Fahrenheit, you can feel more assured while creating meals that require higher temperatures. Since it’s made with cotton, you’ll get a good amount of flexibility while they’re in use. These grocery bag handles that can support up to 80 pounds of merchandise Get a better handle on your groceries with this . With the ability to support up to 80 pounds of goods, these holders will give you more of a comfortable grip than you would have without them. They’re heavy-duty, incredibly well-reviewed, and a great way to ensure you don’t have to make multiple trips back to your car on grocery day. This insulated nylon bag that can hold approximately 24 cans This is insulated to help ensure the drinks and snacks that you bring with you on vacation or during a hike stay as fresh and cold as possible. Its design includes an adjustable air valve which gives you a little more control over how insulated you’d prefer the bag to be. Available in two colors and sizes, both are capable of holding approximately 24 cans in total.
28th World Investment Conference Kicks Off in Riyadh, Uniting Global Leaders in Investment for Sustainable Growth
All Times EST No games scheduled. Birmingham 111, Raptors 108, OT Salt Lake City at Indiana, 6 p.m. College Park at Osceola Magic, 7 p.m. Maine at Grand Rapids, 7 p.m. Motor City at Westchester, 7 p.m. South Bay at Cleveland, 7 p.m. Windy City at Delaware, 7 p.m. Wisconsin at Greensboro, 7 p.m. Santa Cruz at Rio Grande Valley, 8 p.m. Iowa at Mexico City, 9 p.m. Memphis at San Diego, 10 p.m. Story continues below video Salt Lake City at Indiana, 6 p.m. Windy City at Delaware, 6 p.m. South Bay at Cleveland, 7 p.m. Wisconsin at Greensboro, 7 p.m. Austin at Stockton, 8 p.m. Santa Cruz at Rio Grande Valley, 8 p.m. Oklahoma City at Texas, 8:30 p.m. Maine at Motor City, 1 p.m. Osceola Magic at Raptors, 2 p.m. Grand Rapids at Capital City, 3 p.m. Iowa at Mexico City, 5 p.m. Austin at Stockton, 6 p.m. Memphis at San Diego, 9 p.m. Birmingham at Motor City, 7 p.m. Indiana at Westchester, 7 p.m. Long Island at Delaware, 7 p.m. Windy City at College Park, 7 p.m. Sioux Falls at Tempe, 9 p.m.MetLife Investment Management LLC Boosts Stock Holdings in United States Lime & Minerals, Inc. (NASDAQ:USLM)
First downs and second guesses: It feels like the last time I went to a bowl game, Bob Devaney and Bear Bryant were flipping a coin to see who would go to the Orange and Sugar Bowls. All signs point to the Nebraska-Iowa winner on Friday heading to the ReliaQuest Bowl in Tampa, Fla. That’s the bowl speculation. Man, I’ve missed it. The ReliaQuest is the former Outback Bowl, which has never had Nebraska. I always heard that the Outback Bowl served steaks in the press box. These guys will make sure your laptop doesn’t get hacked. It’s a good matchup, with the Big Ten going against the SEC. Which is why Music City would be my preference for a spot if NU doesn’t win on Friday. Some of the potential SEC teams I’ve seen in Nashville are LSU, Oklahoma, Missouri, Ole Miss and Texas A&M. The Huskers against any of them would be a dream matchup. Of course, the last bowl game Nebraska played in was the Music City Bowl, losing to Tennessee in 2016. My memory of that week was hitting the music honky-tonks on Broadway Street and realizing that none of them had TV’s. You were there to listen to music. What a concept. I’ll be happy with any bowl. First-time-in-a-long time bowlers can’t be choosers. Nebraska’s name pops up in several different bowl projections. There’s the Pinstripe Bowl (USA Today) vs. Pitt and vs. Georgia Tech (ESPN), the Duke’s Bowl in Charlotte vs. Syracuse (Action Network) and vs. Georgia Tech (ESPN), Nebraska vs. Texas Tech in the Rate (Phoenix) Bowl and in the Music City Bowl vs. LSU (247Sports). The Huskers will be happy to play in any of them. A good thing about the Duke’s is a Jan. 3 date. But that might be an awkward fit with coach Matt Rhule heading back to the city and stadium where he was fired two years ago. That storyline would dominate the week. Whatever happens, perfect. It’s just nice to be speculating again. I have to admit, the Snoop Dogg Arizona Bowl looks intriguing. Is there a trophy? One day, someone very smart will come up with an NIL Bowl, which will pay the players involved. That’s sort of what Creighton is doing this week, participating in the Players Era Festival in Las Vegas. The tourney will put $1 million into the CU Bird Club collective. Meanwhile, Coach Greg McDermott will earn his money this week and beyond, until point guard Steven Ashworth recovers fully from an ankle injury suffered against Nebraska. Wonder if Mac will have a committee approach to running the offense, including Pop Isaacs and freshman Ty Davis. Fred Hoiberg said on Monday that he has used “tough coaching” with his team twice in the last week — the day after the loss to St. Mary’s and again on Sunday to make sure his Huskers have come down from their win over Creighton. When a coach gets on his team like that, he knows they can handle it. That’s interesting because a good portion of this year’s NU team is new. Hoiberg is obviously going after an older, tougher-mindset kind of player in the portal. It works. Wow, how cool will it be to have Lindsay Krause, Kendra Wait and Ally Batenhorst all on the Omaha Supernovas this season? And Merritt Beason, the No. 1 overall pick to Atlanta in the Pro Volleyball Federation Draft, and Norah Sis, the overall No. 3 pick to Orlando, coming back to Omaha to play. I wonder how John Cook and Kirsten Bernthal Booth feel about having a pro draft in the middle of the season, with the NCAA tournament next week? I’m guessing the players will be focused. But what if the NFL Draft was now? And the NBA Draft was in February? All the talk this season about Nebraska Class A football being in trouble, and yet I couldn’t wait for the Westside-Millard South game on Monday night. It seems to me that there have always been two or three teams better than everyone else. When I arrived here in 1991, it was Omaha Creighton Prep and Lincoln Southeast. Then it was Prep and Millard North. And Millard West. And Omaha North. Westside. Gretna. The difference is the disparity between the top and the middle of Class A is now widening. You see more blowout games. You didn’t used to see those. The transfer issue is a factor, sure. So is OPS shutting down in 2020. And some new schools in districts where the population (and talent) in the district split into different schools. Based on conversations with several coaches, I would add specialization to the list. A lot of football programs have lost kids to playing other sports, like baseball and basketball, full-time. I still love the Friday Night lights, the marching bands, the student sections, all that. And, marquee matchups at state. There’s still a lot of good things going on. Should there be a Nebraska-Creighton basketball traveling trophy? I can’t think of one. But the teams should wear blue and red every year. Get local news delivered to your inbox!
AP News Summary at 4:08 p.m. ESTCopy link Copied Copy link Copied Subscribe to gift this article Gift 5 articles to anyone you choose each month when you subscribe. Already a subscriber? Login New York | Stocks fell broadly on Friday as Wall Street closed out a holiday-shortened week on a down note. The losses were made worse by sharp declines for the Big Tech stocks known as the “Magnificent 7” , which can heavily influence the direction of the market because of their large size. AP Copy link Copied Copy link Copied Subscribe to gift this article Gift 5 articles to anyone you choose each month when you subscribe. Already a subscriber? Login Introducing your Newsfeed Follow the topics, people and companies that matter to you. Latest In Equity markets Fetching latest articles Most Viewed In MarketsAstyra Corporation Shines as a Top Fast-Growing Inner-City Company in America