Vinnies NSW has unveiled a refreshed brand strategy and visual identity for its retail network, developed with Houston Group. The brand refresh marks an exciting new chapter for Vinnies Shops in NSW, as the not-for-profit focuses on connecting with more audiences and amplifying the positive impact of the work undertaken by Vinnies. The strategic and design agency guided the rebranding process, built around the simple but powerful truth that Vinnies Shops transforms unneeded clothes and other goods into much-needed support for society’s most vulnerable and disadvantaged. As consumers become more aware of the negative effects of fast fashion, Vinnies retail outlets provide an easy way to help more people to do more good, by shopping, donating and volunteering. ‘What a privilege to work on such an important and iconic brand that is truly about everyday people doing good, and helping each other out. Having the opportunity to modernise and adapt the Vinnies Shops brand is all part of that too, and I couldn’t be prouder of the work we’ve been able to develop together,” Stuart O’Brien , founder and CEO of Houston Group, said. “Houston’s strategic work lay the foundation for a creative refresh, which elevates the brand identity to connect to a new audience – while not alienating their existing loyal base – by celebrating the iconic aspects of the Vinnies identity and heritage. “Designed with a more impactful, accessible and inspiring approach for younger audiences, the new visual identity is better optimised for digital platforms like social media and e-commerce,” O’Brien added. The agency’s concept of layering and texture was integral to the new identity, inspired by the three stacked hands depicted in the St Vincent de Paul Society logo. The distinct graphic language weaves in textures and textiles to emphasise clothing as a symbol of help, community and connection – representing the fabric of community that Vinnies supports. The refreshed identity also retained and re-energised the brand’s iconic blue, with a range of secondary colours and textural hues connecting its rich history to its vibrant future. Thomas Morgan, director, communications and marketing of St Vincent De Paul Society NSW, said: ‘We’re all incredibly proud of the new retail brand identity. It’s been crafted with care, is warm and energetic and respects the proud heritage of the Society. “Importantly, the brand refresh strongly connects how shopping at Vinnies funds the Society’s crucial social services which provides a hands-up to the most vulnerable and disadvantaged individuals and families in NSW. We can’t wait to roll out our refreshed identity across our network of 230 shops in NSW and bring it to life in campaigns and across our digital channels,” he concluded. The brand refresh will be rolled out across Vinnies’ extensive physical presence across NSW, as well as in digital channels and campaign messaging – helping those who help others do more good in the community. Credit Client: St Vincent De Paul Society NSW Philip Coyte Executive Director – Commercial Enterprise, Retail and Fundraising Satya Tanwer Executive Director – Strategy and Engagement Thomas Morgan- Director, Communications and Marketing Rachel Lawton-Marketing Manager Claire Hutchison-Designer Samuel Sida-Product Leader Kate Pascoe-Communications Manager Megan Pope-Brand Creative Services Manager Agency: Houston Group Stuart O’Brien – CEO & Founder Alex Toohey – Executive Creative Director Gretel Maltabarow – Managing Director Gabriella Bore – Account Director Guy Mitsopoulous – Director of Strategy Isabelle Robinson – Senior Designer Ting He – Senior Designer Keep on top of the most important media, marketing, and agency news each day with the Mediaweek Morning Report – delivered for free every morning to your inbox.Dec. 29—SALT LAKE CITY — Perhaps Nick Nurse landed on the perfect term while describing a bizarre officiating sequence near the end of the first half of Saturday's 76ers game against the Utah Jazz. While trying to call a timeout to challenge what the coach believed was a "clear out-of-bounds win," the Sixers were instead whistled for delay of game — twice. But that allowed Nurse to challenge two out-of-bounds calls down the stretch, which the Sixers won both times. "Weird-good," Nurse said to end his postgame news conference, before chuckling at his own word choice as he walked out of the room. Apply that to how several aspects of the game unfolded. The Sixers followed up their most beautiful win of the season — at the defending-champion Boston Celtics, on Christmas — with one of their choppiest. Their 114-111 victory over the rebuilding Jazz definitely included some weird, and just enough good. But for a team still clawing out of a horrendous, injury-riddled start to a highly anticipated 2024-25 season, the Sixers cannot be picky about how they clinched their ninth win in 12 games to up their record to 12-17. "That was a good game for us, after coming off of the Christmas Day high and the hoopla," said All-Star guard Tyrese Maxey, who finished with 32 points, six assists, and two steals. "[The Jazz] play extremely hard. I think they're better than what their [7-23] record shows. "I was really proud of how resilient we were." Nurse had gotten even more simplistic earlier in his media session, saying his team played Saturday at "two extremes" — from poor to very good — in the span of those 48 minutes. That duality was present on the defensive end. Nurse lamented that his team could not guard the ball while trailing by as many as 14 points during a bad first quarter, acknowledging a mental letdown he found surprising following a shootaround he described as "bouncy and focused." After that, the Sixers surrendered only 18 points during a game-flipping second quarter. Then that unit slipped again when the Jazz rapidly erased the Sixers' 11-point third-quarter advantage. Then the Sixers amassed enough stops down the stretch to overcome a six-point deficit and seize the lead. "It wasn't the greatest defensive performance for 48 minutes," Nurse said. "But it was really good in critical times." "Good" and "weird" also continue to exist within Paul George, the Sixers' perennial All-Star newcomer. He again struggled to generate a consistent scoring flow (13 points on 4-of-11 shooting), and uncharacteristically split two free-throw trips in the final minute. But he unleashed two of his better highlights of the season when he whipped a behind-the-back pass to Maxey for a one handed dunk and later exploded into the lane for his own slam. George also remained an all-over-the-place defender, compiling a season-high five steals. "We're just figuring out who we are," George said. "How we play. How we jell. How we mesh. And, I think, just who works well together. ... I try to find spots throughout the game where I can be aggressive and take a load off [Maxey and Joel Embiid], try to get to my shot, just so I can start to get in rhythm again." What was very good and not at all weird again Saturday? That two-man game between Maxey and Embiid, which, even amid long stretches with Embiid unavailable through the first 29 games, has swiftly recaptured what made them one of the NBA's more dangerous offensive tandems last season. Even Saturday came with some uncertainty, as Embiid entered the matchup listed as questionable to play because of a left foot sprain. Embiid rolled to the basket after screening more than usual on Saturday, helping create an action in the middle of the floor that Nurse called "so deadly." Perhaps the best evidence of those players' natural synergy, however, was Embiid's fourth-quarter desperation pass after falling to the floor to Maxey, who drilled an off-balance three-pointer at the end of the shot clock that put the Sixers up, 105-103, with about three minutes remaining. Yet Embiid and Maxey said they do not want to become too reliant on playing solely off each other. "It's a balance," said Embiid, adding that he wants to "build the same relationships" with other teammates. "We've got to find a way to kind of stabilize a little bit, as far as the record [goes]. Just got to find the right balance on working on our game and chemistry, and also doing whatever it takes to win." This remains a stretch of the season when the Sixers can continue pocketing wins. They next travel to Portland for a Monday matchup against the Trail Blazers, a team that fits the Utah mold of young and rebuilding. Wednesday's opponent, the 13-19 Sacramento Kings, abruptly fired coach Mike Brown on Friday. After that, the Sixers face a Golden State Warriors team that is 4-12 in its last 16 games. And right now, the Sixers will take victories in any form — including weird-good. "We're not worried about April," Maxey said. "We're worried about December. We've got to worry about winning games right now. We're getting better every single day. That's the main thing I think we're worried about." (c)2024 The Philadelphia Inquirer Visit The Philadelphia Inquirer at www.inquirer.com Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
Stock market today: Wall Street inches higher to set more records
Cricket-Jaiswal’s half-century guides India to safety in fourth test
NEW YORK (AP) — U.S. stocks tiptoed to more records amid a mixed Tuesday of trading, tacking a touch more onto what’s already been a stellar year so far. The S&P 500 edged up by 2 points, or less than 0.1%, to set an all-time high for the 55th time this year. It’s climbed in 10 of the last 11 days and is on track for one of its best years since the turn of the millennium. The Dow Jones Industrial Average slipped 76 points, or 0.2%, while the Nasdaq composite added 0.4% to its own record set a day earlier. AT&T rose 4.6% after it boosted its profit forecast for the year. It also announced a $10 billion plan to send cash to its investors by buying back its own stock, while saying it expects to authorize another $10 billion of repurchases in 2027. On the losing end of Wall Street was U.S. Steel, which fell 8%. President-elect Donald Trump reiterated on social media that he would not let Japan’s Nippon Steel take over the iconic Pennsylvania steelmaker. Nippon Steel announced plans last December to buy the Pittsburgh-based steel producer for $14.1 billion in cash, raising concerns about what the transaction could mean for unionized workers, supply chains and U.S. national security. Earlier this year, President Joe Biden also came out against the acquisition. Tesla sank 1.6% after a judge in Delaware reaffirmed a previous ruling that the electric car maker must revoke Elon Musk’s multibillion-dollar pay package. The judge denied a request by attorneys for Musk and Tesla’s corporate directors to vacate her ruling earlier this year requiring the company to rescind the unprecedented pay package. All told, the S&P 500 rose 2.73 points to 6,049.88. The Dow fell 76.47 to 44,705.53, and the Nasdaq composite gained 76.96 to 19,480.91. In the bond market, Treasury yields held relatively steady after a report showed U.S. employers were advertising slightly more job openings at the end of October than a month earlier. Continued strength there would raise optimism that the economy could remain out of a recession that many investors had earlier worried was inevitable. The yield on the 10-year Treasury rose to 4.23% from 4.20% from late Monday. Yields have seesawed since Election Day amid worries that Trump’s preferences for lower tax rates and bigger tariffs could spur higher inflation along with economic growth. But traders are still confident the Federal Reserve will cut its main interest rate again at its next meeting in two weeks. They’re betting on a nearly three-in-four chance of that, according to data from CME Group. Lower rates can give the economy more juice, but they can also give inflation more fuel. The key report this week that could guide the Fed’s next move will arrive on Friday. It’s the monthly jobs report , which will show how many workers U.S. employers hired and fired during November. It could be difficult to parse given how much storms and strikes distorted figures in October. Based on trading in the options market, Friday’s jobs report appears to be the biggest potential market mover until the Fed announces its next decision on interest rates Dec. 18, according to strategists at Barclays Capital. In financial markets abroad, the value of South Korea’s currency fell 1.1% against the U.S. dollar following a frenetic night where President Yoon Suk Yeol declared martial law and then later said he’d lift it after lawmakers voted to reject military rule. Stocks of Korean companies that trade in the United States also fell, including a 1.6% drop for SK Telecom. Japan’s Nikkei 225 jumped 1.9% to help lead global markets. Some analysts think Japanese stocks could end up benefiting from Trump’s threats to raise tariffs , including for goods coming from China . Trade relations between the U.S. and China took another step backward after China said it is banning exports to the U.S. of gallium, germanium, antimony and other key high-tech materials with potential military applications. The counterpunch came swiftly after the U.S. Commerce Department expanded the list of Chinese technology companies subject to export controls to include many that make equipment used to make computer chips, chipmaking tools and software. The 140 companies newly included in the so-called “entity list” are nearly all based in China. In China, stock indexes rose 1% in Hong Kong and 0.4% in Shanghai amid unconfirmed reports that Chinese leaders would meet next week to discuss planning for the coming year. Investors are hoping it may bring fresh stimulus to help spur growth in the world’s second-largest economy. In France, the CAC 40 rose 0.3% amid continued worries about politics in Paris , where the government is battling over the budget. AP Business Writers Yuri Kageyama and Matt Ott contributed.The Miami Dolphins did what they had to do on Sunday without their star quarterback, defeating the Cleveland Browns 20-3 on the road. Tua Tagovailoa, as expected, was announced as inactive for the contest. He was downgraded to doubtful on Saturday with a hip injury that limited him in practice throughout the week. As such, the ball was put into Tyler Huntley's hands once again. The defense made sure he didn't have to do a whole lot of heavy lifting to escape Northeast Ohio with the win. Miami held the Browns to 276 yards on Sunday, 162 passing and 114 rushing. Cleveland QB Dorian Thompson-Robinson had a rough day, completing just 24 of 47 pass attempts for 162 yards and an interception. He also lost a fumble after a sack by Emmanuel Ogbah. The Dolphins put the Browns into third down in basically what felt like series after series. Cleveland faced 17 third downs for the game, converting 7 of them. But it was on the true money down where the Dolphins made their hay for the day. Miami thwarted the Browns all four times that Cleveland went for it on fourth down, including three times in the fourth quarter. Jalen Ramsey broke up a pass intended for Jerry Jeudy in the end zone early in the fourth quarter to kill one drive. Jordyn Brooks grabbed Michael Woods and marshaled him out of bounds short of the line with 4 minutes left to kill another drive. Then, with seconds left and the Dolphins up by 17, Thompson-Robinson turned it over one last time after misconnecting with Elijah Moore. Miami had to lean on its defense when Tagovailoa was on injured reserve earlier this season, and the returns were mixed. They certainly weren't on Sunday. To his credit, Huntley acquitted himself well, completing 22 of 26 attempts for 225 yards with a touchdown and adding 52 yards and a touchdown on the ground. All in all, it was what the Dolphins needed in order to extend their season one more week. And that's all Miami fans could ask for at this point. This article first appeared on A to Z Sports and was syndicated with permission.
NoneAP News Summary at 12:21 p.m. EST
NoneZHONGSHAN, China , Nov. 23, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- SUNLU was present at the Formnext 2024, the largest event for additive manufacturing held in Germany , where they unveiled the new product FilaDryer E2. SUNLU, the Chinese Tech Giant in the 3D printing industry, recently wrapped up a highly successful showcase at Formnext 2024, one of the largest events for additive manufacturing held in Frankfurt, Germany from November 19–22. SUNLU's booth (F29, Hall 11.1) hosted a large number of visitors eager to explore the company's latest innovations in 3D printing materials, equipment, and technology. A key highlight of SUNLU's exhibit was the new range of functional filaments, including PA6-CF, PA12-CF, PC-ABS, and PETG-CF. The filaments provide enhanced strength, durability, and temperature resistance, catering to more demanding applications in both industrial and personal use. Visitors saw firsthand how these materials impact the quality, resilience and overall performance of 3D-printed parts. The debut of the SUNLU FilaDryer E2 also attracted significant interest for its powerful features, notably its maximum drying temperature of 110°C, which allows for the fast drying of functional filaments and annealing printed parts to improve their strength and durability. The FilaDryer E2 will be available for preorder on January 8, 2025 , on our official website . Visitors expressed great anticipation, after seeing the upgrades that set the FilaDryer E2 apart. Jack Jiang , the founder of SUNLU, said: "This opportunity allowed us to position and showcase SUNLU as one of the key global players in the 3D Industry." Formnext 2024 was a valuable opportunity for SUNLU to connect with peers, partners, and customers worldwide. The team exchanged ideas with industry professionals and distributors, where the company had the opportunity to interview James Rooke from "Honey Badger Print and Paint" and talk about the new SUNLU's Filament Connector FC01 and it's perks to make the most out of leftover materials, while enabling multi-color prints. As the exhibition comes to an end, the SUNLU team extends heartfelt thanks to everyone who visited the booth and made the event memorable, and the company looks forward to meeting up again next year for groundbreaking solutions and meaningful partnerships within the additive manufacturing community. About SUNLU Founded in 2013, SUNLU is a leading 3D printing materials company specializing in R&D, manufacturing, and sales. With facilities in China and Vietnam , we operate 150+ automated production lines and employ over 900 staff. Our certified products serve customers across Europe , America, and Southeast Asia. SUNLU has led 30+ research projects, secured 400+ patents, and introduced innovations like "Neat Winding" filament, 3D printing drying boxes, and the ±0.02mm FDM filament tolerance standard, enhancing precision and user experience. Guided by our mission, "Simply Your Creation," we empower creators worldwide with reliable 3D printing materials. For more information, please visit https://www.sunlu.com . Media Contact: Branding@sunlu.com Sales@sunlu.com Stay Updated: If you're interested in the FilaDryer E2, sign up here to receive exclusive preorder information and updates directly in your inbox. View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/sunlu-formnext-2024-event-highlights-from-functional-filaments-to-filadryer-e2-302314231.html SOURCE SUNLU
A former federal prosecutor in the case that sent a man to death row says it is difficult to see a “remorseless murderer” be relieved of his sentence following President Biden’s decision on Monday to commute nearly all federal inmates facing execution. Brandon Council, of North Carolina, was sentenced to death by a federal jury on Oct. 3, 2019, after he was found guilty of killing two women who worked at a South Carolina bank during a robbery in 2017. Council was one of the 37 convicted murderers who will now spend life in prison without parole after Biden reclassified their death sentences. Derek Shoemake, former assistant U.S. attorney for the District of South Carolina and one of the federal prosecutors in the case against Council, told Fox News Digital it was “one of the greatest professional honors” of his life to pursue justice for victims Donna Major, 59, and Kathryn Skeen, 36, and his heart aches for their families following Biden’s decision. “Donna and Katie were amazing women, wonderful mothers, and beacons of light in their community. Today my thoughts and prayers are with their families, and my heart aches for them as they process this news,” Shoemake said in a statement. He also said his thoughts and prayers are with the team who “worked for more than a year” getting justice for Major and Skeen, “ensuring a remorseless murderer received a sentence that spoke to the horrific nature of his senseless crimes.” Council entered CresCom Bank in Conway, South Carolina, on Aug. 21, 2017, with the intention of robbing the business and killing its employees, according to a 2017 news release from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of South Carolina (USAO-SC). After making it inside, Council shot Major, who was the bank teller, multiple times with a revolver, the USAO-SC said at the time. He then ran into Skeen’s office, where she worked as the bank’s manager, and shot her multiple times while she hid under her desk. Before fleeing the bank, he stole keys to both victims’ cars, their bank cards, and more than $15,000 in cash. He took one of the vehicles to a motel he was staying at, packed his luggage, and drove off. “It is difficult to see a sentence wiped away from 400 miles away after it was legally imposed by a jury of men and women from South Carolina who spent weeks listening to evidence, deliberating, and carefully deciding the appropriate punishment,” Shoemake said. He also said it hurts that the victims’ families “will celebrate yet another Christmas without their loved ones,” while Council is among the 37 federally convicted murderers “celebrating a political victory.” Shoemake said his focus is not on the political debate surrounding Biden’s commutations, but on the “legacy of love, family, and faith” that Major and Skeen embodied. “I pray for their families, as I so often do, and I pray for all the victims’ families impacted today,” he said. In a White House statement announcing the commutations on Monday, Biden said he condemns the murderers and their “despicable acts,” and he grieves for the victims and families who have suffered “unimaginable and irreparable loss,” but he “cannot stand back and let a new administration resume executions that I halted.” Only three inmates remain on federal death row as Biden’s presidency nears its end. They are Tree of Life Synagogue shooter Robert Bowers, Charleston church shooter Dylann Roof, and Boston Marathon bomber Dzhokhar Tsarnaev.
Key Takeaways If you're running a business, capital remains the fuel that keeps the engine running. Yet, for startup founders, traditional funding routes like venture capital or bank loans can often feel like a crowded freeway — full of competition, gatekeepers and compromises. The savviest founders throughout history have consistently looked beyond the obvious, tapping into alternative forms of capital to not only fund their growth but also gain an edge in their industries. And today, as the crypto market heats up, it's a reminder that the spirit of financial innovation is as critical as ever. Related: 6 Alternatives to Venture Capital You Need to Consider Lessons from the past: Ford and Dell Let's rewind to the early days of entrepreneurship when competition was thin and the rules were less defined. Consider the story of Henry Ford . Before Ford revolutionized the automobile industry, he was backed not by conventional financiers but by a group of local Detroit investors who believed in his vision. These were not Wall Street titans; they were ordinary people willing to take a calculated risk on a man with an extraordinary idea. Ford's ability to bootstrap with alternative funding not only allowed him to sidestep the constraints of traditional capital but also gave him the freedom to innovate at his own pace. The result? The assembly line, the Model T and an empire that changed the world. Fast-forward to the tech boom of the 1990s, and you'll find another example of alternative capital in the form of corporate partnerships and strategic alliances. Dell Computers , for instance, struck deals with suppliers to secure inventory without upfront cash payments, effectively turning supply chain relationships into a form of working capital. This kind of creative financing wasn't just resourceful; it was revolutionary, enabling Dell to scale rapidly without being beholden to traditional lenders. Modern moves: Crypto and Michael Saylor's Bitcoin play Today, we're seeing a resurgence of this mindset, particularly in the crypto space. One of the most notable examples is Michael Saylor and MicroStrategy. Saylor's strategy of acquiring Bitcoin and leveraging it as a treasury asset isn't just a bold financial move — it's a statement about the evolving nature of capital. By converting traditional dollars into Bitcoin, MicroStrategy has turned its balance sheet into a dynamic, appreciating asset. This has not only provided a hedge against inflation but also positioned the company as a pioneer in the intersection of technology and finance. For startup founders, Saylor's approach is a wake-up call: The tools and strategies for securing capital are no longer confined to the old playbook. Related: What Every Entrepreneur Needs to Know About Raising Capital Building your playbook for alternative capital But why should founders care about alternative forms of capital in the first place? The answer lies in agility and differentiation. Traditional funding routes often come with strings attached — equity dilution, rigid repayment terms or strategic compromises. Alternative capital, on the other hand, offers flexibility. It's about finding untapped resources, whether that's through crypto, crowdfunding, revenue-based financing or strategic partnerships, and turning them into a competitive advantage. In the crypto world, we see a similar dynamic with token sales and Initial Coin Offerings (ICOs). While the ICO craze of 2017 was fraught with speculation, the underlying concept remains powerful. By issuing tokens, startups can raise funds while creating an ecosystem where early supporters have a stake in the project's success. This model aligns incentives in a way that traditional equity or debt financing simply can't. It's no coincidence that Web3 projects like Bored Ape Yacht Club and Pudgy Penguins have leveraged this approach to scale rapidly while fostering vibrant, engaged communities. But alternative capital isn't without its challenges. The crypto market, for instance, is notoriously volatile. Timing is everything. Just as Saylor's Bitcoin strategy has paid off during bullish cycles , it's also exposed MicroStrategy to significant scrutiny during downturns. Similar to traditional venture capital raises, this requires careful planning and execution. A failed campaign can do more harm than good, damaging a brand's credibility. For founders, the key is to approach alternative capital with the same rigor and due diligence as any other funding strategy. Another consideration is regulatory compliance . The landscape for alternative capital, particularly in crypto, is still evolving. Founders must stay informed about legal requirements, whether they're issuing tokens, raising funds through a DAO or exploring revenue-based financing models. Ignoring these details can lead to costly setbacks, undermining the very agility that alternative capital is supposed to provide. So, what does this all mean for today's startup founders? It means embracing a mindset of financial creativity. It means looking at capital not as a static resource but as a dynamic tool that can be shaped, leveraged and optimized. It means asking questions like: Can we tokenize our product to raise funds? Can we turn customer pre-orders into a financing mechanism? Can we partner with suppliers or other businesses to create mutually beneficial financial arrangements? Related: You Don't Need Venture Capital Anymore — Here Are 4 Funding Alternatives Looking forward Ultimately, the goal isn't just to raise money; it's to raise smart money. Alternative capital allows founders to maintain control, build community and innovate without the constraints of traditional funding. Whether you're inspired by Ford's local investors, Dell's supply chain ingenuity or Saylor's Bitcoin playbook, the lesson is the same: The future belongs to those who dare to think differently about capital. When competition is fierce and the pace of innovation is relentless, alternative capital isn't just an option; it's a necessity. Founders who master this art will not only survive but thrive, turning financial creativity into their ultimate competitive advantage.How co-writing a book threatened the Carters’ marriage
NoneThe comprehensive three-day program takes place on February 20-22, 2025 in the Greater Palm Springs, California area, with an optional pre-meeting workshop and a session on AI in cosmetic surgery organized by the AACS's Committee on Artificial Intelligence CHICAGO , Dec. 16, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery (AACS) , the world's largest multi-specialty home for physicians dedicated to cosmetic surgery and aesthetic medicine, will conduct its 41st Annual Scientific Meeting (ASM) on February 20-22, 2025 , with an optional pre-meeting workshop, Sculpting Human Figure 101: The Integration of Art and Science, on February 19 . Recognized globally for its commitment to educating for patient safety since it was founded in 1985, the AACS will hold this signature Continuing Medical Education (CME) program in-person at the La Quinta Resort & Club in the Greater Palm Springs, California area. The meeting includes a comprehensive scientific program focused on top-quality education, patient safety, and cutting-edge developments in the field of cosmetic surgery and aesthetic medicine. Attendees will have ample opportunities to network, learn, and share ideas with industry leaders from across the country and around the world. Offering 32 educational sessions led by foremost experts in cosmetic surgery, the scientific program content spans diverse specialties, such as dermatology, otolaryngology, general surgery, oral, and maxillofacial surgery, ophthalmology, and plastic and reconstructive surgery. The program includes an outstanding array of featured guest speakers , including opening keynote speaker Sandra Lee , MD, FAACS (widely known as Dr. Pimple Popper), Women in Cosmetic Surgery keynote speaker Susan Dunn , LMT, NMT, 2025 Webster Lecturer Edward M. Zimmerman , MD, and closing keynote speaker, Elda Fisher , MD, DMD, FACS . Attendees will experience pioneering sessions on the latest techniques and developments in cosmetic surgery, including the integration of innovative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies into cosmetic surgery, body contouring, face lift surgery, ultrasound-guided Brazilian butt lift, breast, rhinoplasty, liposuction, skin rejuvenation and regenerative medicine, gender affirmation, and more. The rich program offers a variety of learning formats to suit every participant, including: short abstract presentations during which colleagues will share their latest techniques, discoveries, and cases; a drop-in video session for observing in-depth surgical techniques; small-group sessions for intimate discussions and expert insights; a Morbidity and Mortality (M&M) Conference focused on managing complications; a GOAT (Greatest of All Time) Panel with tips from industry veterans, and formal poster presentations. An annual highlight, The Webster Society Gala Dinner will celebrate the legacy of Dr. Richard Webster and honor the esteemed 2025 Webster Lecture recipient Dr. Edward Zimmerman . Allied Health professionals can participate in a dedicated track featuring practice management and clinical topics designed for mid-level providers. There will be an Injectables Day, featuring a three-session track on the latest techniques and advancements in injectables and a breakfast session titled, "Charting Your Course: From Training To Triumph in Cosmetic Surgery" will be offered to those newer to the field. In keeping with the Academy's mission to advocate for patient safety and ensure that new advancements meet the highest standards of care, the recently formed AACS Committee on Artificial Intelligence will present a session on "AI and New Frontiers in Cosmetic Surgery," moderated by Committee Chair Albert Carlotti , MD, DDS, FAACS , and Giselle Prado-Wright , MD, MBA. This cutting-edge session will share insights and knowledge needed to navigate the evolving AI landscape. As Dr. Carlotti comments, "Artificial intelligence is reshaping industries worldwide, and cosmetic surgery is no exception. By proactively addressing the opportunities and challenges of AI, we can ensure that these advancements enhance - not compromise - our commitment to excellence in patient care." The optional pre-meeting workshop on Wednesday, February 19 will be presented by Sculpting for Surgeons, LLCTM , featuring professional sculptor and aesthetic surgeon Dr. Peter Schmid . Didactic presentations and an interactive sculpting experience will provide perspectives that can be directly applied to patient analysis, cosmetic surgical planning, execution, and ongoing practices. AACS President Mo Banki , MD, DMD, FAACS comments, "Our 41st Annual Scientific Meeting offers stellar opportunities for cosmetic surgery practitioners from around the world to learn from and be inspired by leading cosmetic surgery and aesthetic medicine experts, deepen their knowledge and understanding of the latest research and techniques, and exchange ideas with one another in the interest of advancing the profession." Scientific Program Chair Lisa Chipps , MD, FAACS, notes, "Given our deep commitment to education and patient safety. we are thrilled to offer such a dynamic program that will abundantly share new findings, new research, new techniques, and new ideas from outstanding cosmetic surgery practitioners." The full AACS ASM program can be viewed here . Details about the pre-meeting workshop can be accessed here . Cosmetic surgery practitioners may register here for the 2025 AACS ASM. About the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery (AACS) The American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery (AACS) is committed to advancing the multi-specialty, global disciplines of cosmetic surgery and aesthetic medicine for the benefit of patients and practitioners. Since its inception in 1985, the AACS has become the leading educational provider for cosmetic surgery practitioners from a diverse array of medical specialties, including dermatology, oral & maxillofacial surgery, otolaryngology, general surgery, ophthalmology, and plastic/reconstructive surgery. AACS is composed of over 1,600 members who pursue educational and training opportunities in cosmetic surgery to ensure consistently high quality patient care. View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/the-american-academy-of-cosmetic-surgery-aacs-presents-its-41st-annual-scientific-meeting-featuring-groundbreaking-educational-sessions-and-an-innovative-pre-meeting-workshop-302332821.html SOURCE American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery (AACS)
Mace and Haley slam Biden’s $1 billion gift to Africa: ‘Infuriating’
Have you ever heard of the term Digital Detox and its impact? In today’s world, we humans spend a lot of time with various digital screens. This term emerged from our inability to break free from the rapidly changing landscape of cultural communication. So, in this article, I will share with you what I understand about Digital Detox. Starting a digital detoxification begins with setting clear and meaningful goals. Take some time to reflect on why you feel the need to take a break from technology and what you want to gain from it. Perhaps you’re aiming to reduce stress caused by constant notifications and online demands, or maybe you want to improve your sleep quality by stepping away from screens before bedtime. Your goal could also be as simple as spending more quality time with your family and friends, free from digital distractions. Whatever your reasons, having a clear purpose will help keep you motivated and focused throughout your detox journey. Creating boundaries is a key step in a successful digital detox. Start by setting specific times during your day or week when you commit to being device-free. For instance, you might decide to put your phone away during meals so you can focus on enjoying your food and connecting with those around you. Another idea is to establish a screen-free routine before bedtime to help your mind unwind and improve your sleep quality. You could even dedicate entire weekends to disconnecting from devices and engaging in offline activities. These boundaries allow you to take control of your time, fostering healthier habits and a better balance between your digital and real-world life. Informing others about your digital detox is an important step to ensure success. Let your friends, family, and colleagues know about your plan so they can understand why you might be less available or slower to respond. By sharing your goals, you also invite their support, which can help you stay committed. For example, your loved ones might refrain from sending unnecessary messages or help you stick to your boundaries by encouraging offline activities. Open communication ensures that those around you won’t misinterpret your reduced online presence and can even inspire them to join you in prioritizing real-world connections. Finding alternatives to screen time is a crucial part of a successful digital detox. Instead of reaching for your devices, explore activities that allow you to unplug and focus on the present moment. For example, immerse yourself in a captivating book, which can transport you to another world and stimulate your imagination. You might also enjoy going for a walk, which not only helps clear your mind but also keeps you physically active. Picking up a new hobby, such as painting, gardening, or cooking, is another excellent way to spend your time productively and creatively. By replacing screen time with fulfilling offline activities, you’ll discover new interests and enjoy a healthier, more balanced lifestyle. Using technology mindfully is an essential part of maintaining a balanced digital detox. Instead of defaulting to mindless scrolling through social media or getting lost in endless online content, make a conscious effort to use your devices with intention. For instance, if you’re online, focus on activities that are productive or enriching, such as learning a new skill, connecting meaningfully with friends, or managing essential tasks. Set limits on your screen time and be aware of how you’re using technology, ensuring it adds value to your life rather than simply filling time. This mindful approach helps you stay in control and prevents digital habits from dominating your day. A gradual reduction in screen time is an effective way to ease into a digital detox and make the transition more manageable. Instead of abruptly cutting off your device usage, start small by setting achievable daily limits. For example, you could begin by reducing the time you spend on social media by 15 minutes each day or turning off your devices an hour before bed. Over time, these small changes will add up, helping you adjust without feeling overwhelmed. This step-by-step approach not only makes the detox more sustainable but also allows you to build healthier digital habits at a pace that works for you. One of the greatest benefits of a digital detox is improved mental health. Constant exposure to social media and the endless stream of notifications can often lead to stress and anxiety, as people feel pressured to stay connected or compare themselves to others online. By stepping away from these digital distractions, you give your mind a much-needed break, allowing you to relax and focus on the present. Over time, reduced screen time can lead to a calmer, more balanced mindset, helping you feel more in control of your emotions and less overwhelmed by the demands of the digital world. A digital detox can lead to better sleep, especially when you reduce screen time in the hours before bedtime. The blue light emitted by screens interferes with the production of melatonin, the hormone that regulates sleep, making it harder to fall and stay asleep. By stepping away from devices in the evening, you allow your body to follow its natural sleep-wake cycle. This simple change can result in deeper, more restorative sleep, leaving you feeling refreshed and energized the next day. Over time, this improved sleep quality contributes to better overall health and well-being. A digital detox can greatly enhance your focus and productivity. When you cut down on the constant digital distractions, such as checking notifications or scrolling through social media, it becomes easier to concentrate on important tasks. Without the interruptions of emails, messages, or apps, your mind can focus more deeply on what you’re doing, leading to better results in less time. This increase in productivity allows you to accomplish more, whether at work, school or in personal projects, while also feeling more satisfied with your progress. Over time, the habit of reducing distractions will help you develop stronger focus and a more efficient work routine. A digital detox can lead to stronger relationships by fostering more face-to-face interactions and quality time with your loved ones. When you reduce screen time, you’re more present and attentive, allowing you to engage in meaningful conversations without distractions. Spending uninterrupted time together helps deepen emotional connections and create lasting memories. Whether it’s enjoying a meal together, playing games, or simply having a heartfelt chat, these moments strengthen bonds and improve communication. By prioritizing real-world connections over digital ones, you’ll cultivate deeper, more fulfilling relationships that are built on genuine connections and shared experiences. Taking a break from screens can significantly boost your creativity. Without the constant noise and information overload from digital devices, your mind has the freedom to wander and think more deeply. This mental space allows for new ideas to emerge and creative solutions to form. Engaging in offline activities like walking, journaling, or simply daydreaming can help your brain make connections it might not have otherwise, leading to fresh perspectives and innovative thinking. By stepping away from screens, you allow yourself to tap into your creative potential and explore new ways of thinking and problem-solving. Reducing screen time can have a positive impact on your physical health by encouraging more movement and less sedentary behaviour. When you’re not spending hours in front of a screen, you’re more likely to engage in physical activities like walking, exercising, or even simple tasks like cleaning and cooking. These activities help reduce the risks associated with a sedentary lifestyle, such as obesity, poor posture, and heart disease. By prioritizing movement and spending less time on devices, you improve your overall fitness and energy levels, which leads to a healthier and more active lifestyle. Contemplating the importance of a digital detox reveals the profound impact technology has on our daily lives and well-being. In our hyper-connected world, constant notifications, social media pressures, and screen time can lead to increased stress and anxiety. By stepping back and setting meaningful goals for a digital detox, individuals can regain control over their lives, reduce mental clutter, and enhance their overall quality of life. Reflecting on the reasons behind the need for a detox – whether it’s to improve sleep, strengthen relationships, or simply find more time for personal growth – can provide the motivation needed to commit to the process and achieve lasting benefits. Furthermore, the practice of creating boundaries and finding alternatives to screen time can foster healthier habits and a more balanced lifestyle. By setting aside device-free times, such as during meals or before bedtime, individuals can engage more deeply with the world around them and reconnect with loved ones. Exploring offline activities like reading, walking, or pursuing new hobbies not only helps reduce screen dependence but also stimulates creativity and personal development. This mindful approach to technology use encourages a more intentional and fulfilling way of living, where digital tools enhance rather than dominate one’s life. All in all, a digital detox offers numerous benefits that extend beyond just reducing screen time. It promotes improved mental health, better sleep, heightened focus, and stronger relationships. By setting clear goals, establishing boundaries, and mindfully using technology, individuals can achieve a healthier and more balanced lifestyle. The key lies in taking small, gradual steps to make the transition manageable and sustainable. As people become more conscious of their digital habits, they can enjoy the positive changes that a digital detox brings, ultimately leading to a more satisfying and enriched life.NexOptic Technology (CVE:NXO) Stock Price Down 20% – Time to Sell?With filming wrapped for Wednesday Season 2 , fans are eagerly awaiting its release on Netflix . Starring Jenna Ortega as the iconic Wednesday Addams , the upcoming season promises a mix of action, suspense, and thriller-like elements that viewers have been craving. Adding to the excitement is the much-anticipated cameo by Lady Gaga , whose involvement has created a buzz among fans. While the exact release date hasn’t been confirmed, the show is slated to return in 2025. Production began in May 2024, and based on the release pattern of the previous season, it’s likely Season 2 will debut in the first half of 2025. Netflix has been dropping cryptic hints about the new season on its social media platforms, further building anticipation. Showrunner Miles Millar and co-creator Alfred Gough have hinted at potential storylines for multiple seasons, indicating that Wednesday has a long journey ahead if it continues its success. The second season will return to Nevermore Academy , where Wednesday Addams confronts new challenges while exploring her dark complexities. Jenna Ortega has teased that Season 2 will lean more into horror and less into romance, offering a darker, twisted narrative. Catherine Zeta-Jones reprises her role as Morticia Addams and has promised the season will be “bigger and more twisted than you can imagine.” Additionally, Wednesday’s relationship with her family, particularly her younger brother Pugsley, will play a more central role as he enrolls at Nevermore Academy. Arabella Chi Announces Pregnancy Amid Leonardo DiCaprio Connection; Sonogram & Test Inside | WATCH One of the season's highlights is the guest appearance of Lady Gaga, following the success of her remix of "Bloody Mary," a song closely associated with Ortega’s viral dance scene from Season 1. Producers were thrilled to include Gaga, adding a unique touch to the series. Season 2 will also introduce several new cast members, including Billie Piper , Steve Buscemi, Joanna Lumley, Thandiwe Newton, and Christopher Lloyd. However, their roles remain under wraps. Returning cast members include Emma Myers as Enid Sinclair and Zeta-Jones as Morticia, alongside Ortega. Some familiar faces from Season 1 won’t be returning. Hunter Doohan, who portrayed Tyler, and Naomi J. Ogawa, who played Yoko Tanaka, are confirmed to be absent. Percy Hynes White, who played Xavier Thorpe, will also not return following allegations of misconduct, which he has denied. Wednesday Season 2 is reportedly set to release in July 2025, three years after the debut of the first season. Fans can expect more thrills, chills, and the eerie charm that made the show a global phenomenon.