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Considering poor local government administration in Nigeria, especially, in Anambra state, some stakeholders recently converged in Awka to proffer reliable solutions towards overcoming the challenges. OKECHUKWU ONUEGBU reports The need for strong local government system in Anambra state came under focus late September as stakeholders – political parties, the church, voters, civil society and the media – underscored that LG polls were indispensable for the growth of the third tier government. History of LG polls in Anambra The state, which prides itself as Light of the Nation, last conducted election into the third tier of the government on January 11, 2014, which led to emergence of 21 Chairmen and 326 counsellors democratically elected. Many residents and natives of Anambra celebrated the development, even though it is a constitutional injunction which ought to be followed by every democratic nation. For the records the first LG polls in Anambra state held after the return of democracy in 1999. At end of the tenure of those elected sometimes, the then Governor Chinwoke Mbadinuju (now late) constituted a Transition Committee (TC) members. Subsequent governors – Dr Chris Ngige, Mr Peter Obi (after Supreme Court restored mandate), Virgy Etiaba (Acting during Obi’s impeachment) and Mr Peter Obi (after surviving impeachment), all emulated the aberration. However, unsuccessful attempts were made to conduct the election on December 4, 2004, February 2005, November 2011, October 5, 2013, December 14, 2013 and December 21, 2013. In the twilight of the Obi’s administration, precisely two months to go, local government elections were held in the state. So, the people were happy because they never believed Obi could later organise council poll 12 years later and barely two months to end of his second term. As his successor, former governor, Willie Obiano, took over the reins of leadership on March 17, 2014 under the same All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA) philosophy and mantra of continuity, complete and commence new projects, the citizenry were hopeful to exercise their franchise again and again. But Obiano’s administration shattered the dream when he appointed the former elected Council officers as TC Chairmen and members (Counselors) on 2017. He renewed their appointments every three months continuously, with some holding unto the power for 8 years, just as others served between 2, 3 or 4 years before been succeeded by new TC Chairmen and Councillors. LG polls as campaign strategy As a result of the foregoing, issues of conduct of Local Government election became a political campaign strategy among the 18 political parties that participated in Anambra state 2021 gubernatorial poll. Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, the APGA candidate for the poll three years ago also made it a policy thrust, stating that he would conduct council poll, if he won, within six months of assuming office. But since assumption of office on March 17, 2022, to date, approximately 21 months later, the governor has not deemed it to reconstitute the Anambra State Independent Electoral Commission (ANSIEC) whose duty it is to conduct election. The last ANSIEC Chairman was Mr Sylvester Okonkwo, the man behind the 2014 LG poll, and he had not only left the commission but also joined his ancestors. Also, Soludo, on assumption of office, retained most of the TC Chairmen and members handed over to him up to 6 months before appointing new ones to be overseeing affairs of Council Areas up to date. Amplified voices against Caretaker Committees Stakeholders in Anambra state have continued to kick against the use of caretaker committees in running of Local Government (LG) but their voices got amplified on December 8, 2023. An Abuja based- African Centre for Leadership, Strategy and Development (Centre LSD) in partnership with International Peace and Civic Responsibility Centre (IPCRC), in collaboration with Nigeria Civil Society Situation Room, convoked stakeholders forum at Awka. Under the topic ‘Strengthening Transparency, Accountability in Governance and Electoral Process (STAGE).’, the forum attended by traditional rulers, civil society organisations, government representatives, journalists, clerics, political party leaders, among others, were unanimous in canvassing for polls at the third tier level of government. Reasons for LG polls According to the Director of Strategy, African Centre for Leadership, Strategy & Development (Centre LSD), Abuja, Itia Otabor, the essence of the stakeholders forum was to bring together key players in Anambra state LG system to brainstorm on importance of conducting council polls. “Our deliberation will not only be fruitful but a cornerstone towards the conduct of Local Government election in Anambra state. LG election is a constitutional matter not a favour. “It is enshrined in section 7 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. The Constitution states that there must be democratically elected Local government officers. We are here to rally round support and partnership to see it happen,” he added. Speaking at the occasion, a lecturer in the Department of Mass Communication, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Dr Henry Duru, called for a review of Local Government system to be at par with other tiers of government rather than state governors’ who believed were turning it into instrument for reward of political party men and supporters. Duru continued, “the 36 state governors had reduced LG areas into pseudo democracy through unhealthy interferences such as non-conduct of election, use of caretaker committees, ensuring that only party members and loyalists were appointed as State Independent Electoral Commission or win election at the third tier of government. “Thus, these appointed or supposedly elected officials are mere appendages to the governors which make mockery of the constitutionally envisaged democratic functioning of this tier of government. “Another factor to be signposted in our quest for a viable and democratically functional LG system is the financial interest of state governors in local governments. “This has been seen as one of the variables that have nurtured this culture of reluctance to allow genuine democracy at this level of government. Appointing LG officials or meddling in their election enables the governors to maintain control over the finances of the local governments. “This leads us to the issue of accountability and transparency in the LG system. A lot of things seem shrouded at that level of government as there is no robust mechanism for checks and balances. “This is largely given that, that tier of government has not been exactly constituted as a democratic unit. A situation where state governors have emasculated the financial system of the LG system would give little room for transparency,” he maintained. Duru’s position was that the 1976 local government reform in Nigeria which is enshrined under section 7(1) of 1999 Constitution (as amended), was an attempt to realise local government as the third tier of government where participation of the grassroots in governance is best guaranteed through bringing government closer to them but what is currently happening nationwide contradicts it. “These chief executives (governors) have continued to see the LG system, not as a fully-fledged third tier of government for service delivery to the people, but as a tool for strengthening their political position. So, they see it a personal political weapon to be guarded jealously, hence are reluctant to subject its composition to an electoral process. “This is why it has become commonplace for incoming governors to sack elected or appointed LG officials when they belong to opposition parties This is unmitigated appropriation of state apparatus; weaponisation of state institution for political gains. “It’s for the above reason that even when governors are benevolent enough to conduct LG polls, these exercises end up being a charade as they become a selection rather than an election process. Thus, the ruling party in any state hardly gives the opposition a chance in any LG elections. “Having appropriated the LG system as a political arsenal, these governors would take no risk of living it for grabs in a free and fair election. Thus, it’s not just about having LG elections, but having it in a manner that’s consistent with its democratic status as envisaged by the constitution,” he added. On his part, the Chairman, International Peace and Civic Responsibility Centre (IPCR), Awka, Prince Chris Azor, observed that it was unfortunate that Anambra state which is Light of the Nation was lagging behind with the conduct of Local Government election. “The LG election is very important. We want to encourage and suggest to the government on how best to get it done. We are not partisans. Our philosophy is to put people at stretch. Any government that takes care of the citizens and security have done a pass mark. And Local government election is one of the means of taking good care of the citizens because it encourages citizens participation in governance from the grassroots, ” he noted. Contributing, the Traditional Ruler of Nawgu, Dunukofia LGA, Igwe George E. Okaa-Onwuogu; and Administration Secretary, Society for Equity, Justice & Peace SEJUP, Venerable Jason Onyeakagbusi, argued that conduct of LG election would not only take the government closer to the people but also create jobs, eradicate crimes, boost the State economy, while creating healthy environment for competition among Council Areas and grassroots politicians. Reinforcing Soludo’s campaign promise But responding, the Anambra State Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Mrs Chiamaka Nnake, represented by Ms Ogochukwu Oji, reassured that Soludo would conduct Local government election because he was a man of his words and lover of due process. Also, the member representing Awka North LGA and Chairman, Anambra State House of Assembly Committee on Local Government, Hon. Chimezie Ikwunne, explained that the state legislators would not only ensure adequate provisions for effective conduct of Council poll but also work in harmony with the state executive to entrench peaceful and transparent running of the LGs. Ikwunne’ speech was in sharp contrast to a recent comment by Hon. Henry Nigeria Mbachu, the member representing Awka South 1 at the same Anambra State House of Assembly. Mbachu had explained that his finding from N410 billion 2024 budget estimate submitted by the governor showed that there was no plan for the poll because in page 475 of the budget for Anambra State Independent Electoral Commission (ANSIEC), the sum of N89,120,000.00 was budgeted in 2023 while the projected estimate for the incoming year (2024) is ₦229,120,000.00. However, the stakeholders forum in a communique concluded that the state government has the wherewithal to conduct local council election if it holds unto its policy thrust. Amid complaints of shabby conduct of the poll, it was heartwarming that wards and local government councils in Anambra state had elected representatives September this year.Aston Villa 0-0 Juventus: Morgan Rogers controversially denied last-gasp winner in Champions League
WASHINGTON - As president-elect Donald Trump rattles his closest neighbours with threats of tariffs, he is also firming up the team of loyalists to put his plans into action. Trump’s team to lead his trade agenda and the American economy include trade lawyers, former advisers and Wall Street executives who have all expressed favourable views of tariffs. “He’s choosing a lot of people who are going to be loyal to him and his ideas,” said Matthew Lebo, a specialist in U.S. politics at Western University in London, Ont. “And that probably will lead to a lot more volatility than even we saw in the first term.” On Tuesday evening, Trump picked Jamieson Greer to be U.S. trade representative. The president-elect said Greer played a key role in the first Trump administration imposing tariffs on China and negotiating the Canada-U.S.-Mexico Agreement. If confirmed, Greer will oversee the trade pact’s review in 2026. “Jamieson will focus the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative on reining in the country’s massive trade deficit, defending American manufacturing, agriculture, and services, and opening up export markets everywhere,” Trump said in a statement. Greer was the chief of staff to former U.S. trade representative Robert Lighthizer as the trilateral agreement was being crafted to replace the North American Free Trade Agreement, which was torn up last time Trump entered office. Greer’s nomination came the day after Trump said he will impose a 25 per cent import tariff on goods coming from Canada and Mexico. He has also announced an additional 10 per cent tariff on goods from China. Trump said the tariffs against Canada and Mexico would remain in place until both countries stop people and drugs, in particular fentanyl, from illegally crossing the border into the U.S. A Canadian Chamber of Commerce report suggested Trump’s previous pledge to impose a 10 per cent levy would take a $30-billion bite out of the Canadian economy. More than 77 per cent of Canadian exports go to the U.S. and trade comprises 60 per cent of Canada’s gross domestic product. Some economists have warned across-the-board duties would cause inflation in the U.S., even though Trump campaigned on lowering costs for Americans. Greer was deeply involved in Trump’s original sweeping tariffs on China and subsequent negotiations on the U.S.-China Phase 1 trade agreement, online biographies say. In testimony about China’s trade agenda at a House trade subcommittee last year, Greer said he believes “good fences make good neighbours, and trade enforcement is an important part of establishing those fences.” On Tuesday, Trump also tapped Kevin Hassett to be the director of the White House National Economic Council. The role will be key in fulfilling Trump’s campaign promise to fix the U.S. economy. His announcement said Hassett will also “ensure that we have fair trade with countries that have taken advantage of the United States in the past.” Hassett served during the first Trump term as chairman of the Council of Economic Advisers and the president-elect has called him a “true friend.” The latest nominations round out an economic team that includes hedge fund executive Scott Bessent for Treasury secretary and Howard Lutnick, the CEO of Wall Street investment bank Cantor Fitzgerald, who was tapped for commerce secretary. If confirmed by the Senate, Lutnick would oversee a sprawling cabinet agency and Trump’s tariff agenda. He has been a vocal supporter of Trump’s tariff plans. In an CNBC interview in September he said tariffs are “an amazing tool for the president to use — we need to protect the American worker.” Lebo said as Trump prepares to return to office he is removing any person who could prove to be a guardrail or check on his power. “These are people aligned with Trump,” Lebo said. “More and more aligned with his campaign rhetoric.” This report by The Canadian Press was first published Nov. 27, 2024. — With files from The Associated PressThis year, Amazon is pulling out all the stops for Black Friday and offers incredible discounts on a wide range of Dyson products including their renowned vacuums, air purifiers and hair dryers. Among these, the Dyson Supersonic stands out as a global reference in hair care technology. Yes, it’s true that the Dyson Supersonic is easily ten times more expensive than an average hair dryer, but its efficiency and performance make it worth every penny. It not only enhances the beauty of your hair but also protects it from heat damage, which makes it the best investment you can make for your hair care routine. Currently available for $329.00 on Amazon, the Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer is marked down by $100, reflecting a 23% discount from its original price of $429.99 . This price drop during Black Friday makes it one of the most anticipated deals of the season. See at Amazon The Supersonic is engineered with advanced technology that allows it to dry hair quickly while minimizing heat exposure . Its powerful digital motor V9 spins up to 110,000 RPM and creates a high-velocity jet of air that dries hair swiftly and efficiently. Intelligent Heat Control The Dyson Supersonic has an intelligent heat control system which measures air temperature over 40 times per second to prevent extreme heat damage. This ensures that your hair maintains its natural shine and softness while reducing frizz by up to 75% . The dryer comes with multiple styling attachments including a smoothing nozzle for a sleek finish, a diffuser for defining curls and a styling concentrator for precision styling. Each attachment uses Dyson’s innovative magnetic connection system. The design of the Dyson Supersonic is not only functional but it’s also aesthetically pleasing: Its lightweight construction prevents arm strain during use and its sleek appearance adds a touch of elegance to any vanity or bathroom counter. Many professional salons around the world have adopted the Supersonic as their go-to hair dryer due to its superior performance and relibiality. Users rave about how quickly they can achieve salon-quality results at home without the risk of damaging their hair. As you consider your options this Black Friday, remember that investing in a high-quality product like the Dyson Supersonic hair dryer means you’re choosing durability and effectiveness over temporary savings. Unlike cheaper alternatives that may break down or underperform after a short period, the Supersonic model is built to last and deliver exceptional results consistently. See at Amazon
The adrenaline-filled world of drifting is set to take center stage as the South East Asia Drift Series (SEADS) launches its inaugural leg in the Philippines. Drifting enthusiasts can expect heart-stopping action on December 7 and 8 at the R33 Racetrack, where skilled drivers from across the globe will showcase their prowess in this high-energy motorsport. Rome Charpentier: A Global Drifting Sensation Adding star power to the Philippine leg of SEADS is none other than Rome Charpentier, a renowned U.S. drifter making waves in international circuits. Competing under the Accelera x Autocraft Drift Team, Charpentier brings his unique style and unmatched technical skills to the local drifting scene. His presence promises to elevate the event to an entirely new level, giving fans a front-row seat to world-class drifting. Danny Ferdito: Indonesia’s Top Rider Joins the Action Joining the roster of elite drivers is Danny Ferdito, one of Indonesia’s most celebrated riders. Representing the Accelera x Autocraft Drift Team, Ferdito is known for his aggressive style and precision on the track. His participation further underscores the series’ goal of bringing together the best talents in the region. Autocraft Drift Team: A Force to Reckon With The Autocraft Drift Team is ready to dominate the track with its powerhouse lineup featuring Dr Drift, Daughter Drift, and Sister Drift. As key players in the Accelera x Autocraft Drift Team, they will push the boundaries of performance and creativity, making them fan favorites wherever they compete. Expect breathtaking stunts, seamless teamwork, and edge-of-your-seat entertainment from this dynamic squad. Accelera Tires: The Ultimate Choice for Champions The Accelera x Autocraft Drift Team relies exclusively on Accelera Tires to power their vehicles on the demanding SEADS tracks. Designed for precision, control, and durability, Accelera’s 651 Sport Tire model is the ultimate choice for professional drifters. With its superior grip and performance, it enables Rome Charpentier, Danny Ferdito, and the entire Autocraft Drift Team to deliver show-stopping performances Don’t Miss Out on the Action! Drifting fans and motorsport enthusiasts, mark your calendars! Join us at the R33 Racetrack on December 7 and 8 to witness the launch of the South East Asia Drift Series. Be part of this thrilling event, cheer for your favorite drifters, and experience the ultimate fusion of speed, skill, and spectacle. For ticket information and updates, follow the official SEADS social media pages. Don’t just watch–be there and feel the roar of engines and the thrill of the Drift! Being business-savvy should be fun, attainable and A+. BMPlus is BusinessMirror's digital arm with practical tips & success stories for aspiring and thriving millennial entrepreneurs.Quantum Unveiled: Revolutionizing Finance with Advanced Quantum-Safe Security and AI Compliance on Coinstore
NASA Awards Operations, Services, Maintenance, and Infrastructure Contract
FIFA confirms 2034 World Cup coming to Saudi ArabiaZenless Zone Zero update 1.4 launches December 18, as developer HoYoverse announced in a reveal stream earlier today. The patch is headlined by new S-tier Agents Miyabi and Harumasa, with the latter being free to all players, as well as more sweeping changes to the prevalence of the divisive TV mode puzzle-lite minigame. Miyabi is a Frost Anomaly Agent who wields a katana, while Harumasa is an Electric Agent who has both a bow and a blade. To obtain Harumasa for free, you'll just need to reach Inter-Knot level eight after update 1.4 launches. Beyond a free S-tier Agent, version 1.4 has been billed as a thoroughly above-average update, with main story stages redesigned up to chapter three, exploration mode adding the option to roam around as or with their Agents, and combat making a fundamental change by making ultimate-powering Decibels unique to each character instead of shared across the team. In an interview with GamesRadar+ , three developers from the Zenless Zone Zero team discussed the challenge of balancing TV mode with player tastes. The intermission-type game mode has elicited split opinions since launch, and while TV mode isn't disappearing entirely, with this story overhaul the folks who'd rather get on with the rest of the game have largely gotten their wish. "From the early stages of development, we envisioned Zenless Zone Zero as a game designed for long-term operation. Like any living entity, the game will grow and evolve with the support of its players," producer Zhenyu Li, Game Designer X, and Game Designer Y said in a joint response. "The TV mode has been one of the most frequently discussed features based on player feedback, which is why it has undergone significant changes from Version 1.0 to the current Version 1.4. For us, player feedback is a crucial driving force behind the game's long-term growth. We are neither surprised by nor dismissive of any feedback. Instead, we sincerely appreciate all feedback and are always eager to listen to what every player has to say." Update 1.4 is coming to PS5, PC, mobile, and PS5 Pro, with the premium version of the console additionally folding in "enhanced performance and ray-tracing technology for an upgraded visual experience." These games like Genshin Impact are perfect for anyone looking for something new to jump into.
an Campbell has proven to be an excellent head coach during his four years with the Dan is recognized for his energy and motivation for the team. He is the type of head coach who doesn't want to be judged by what he did not try. With the victory last night against Jordan Love and the Packers, it seems that the Lions have secured the NFC North title, making them, in my opinion, the best team in the NFL. The game was a must-watch for NFL fans, especially considering the primetime games we had in the first weeks of the season. However, social media wasn't very pleased about having the Browns or the Jets featured in so many primetime games. I do not blame them. Seeing a dynamic Detroit Lions offense is a wonderful football experience. They have been breaking statistics and records all season long. This time, they broke the record for consecutive wins in the team's history (11). Who can stop the Lions? Who can stop Jared Goff and his team? I am a true fan of the backfield, especially with two standout running backs: Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery, who have been sensational. The offensive line, considered the best in the league according to PFF, is led by Penei Sewell and Frank Ragnow. Goff also has a strong set of weapons at his disposal, including WR's Amon-Ra St. Brown, Jameson Williams, Tim Patrick, Allen Robinson, and TE Sam LaPorta. They are arguably the best Detroit Lions team in NFL history. While it seems likely that they and the Eagles will meet in the NFC Final, both teams will need to overcome challenges from interesting opponents like the Commanders, Vikings, and Seahawks. Hopefully, they can compete against the Chiefs and take something away from Patrick Mahomes' kingdom.COLUMBUS, Ohio — Nick Suzuki scored 44 seconds into overtime and the Montreal Canadiens beat the Columbus Blue Jackets 4-3 on Wednesday night, snapping a two-game skid. Juraj Slafkovsky had a goal and an assist, Cole Caufield added a power-play goal and Emil Heineman also scored. Cayden Primeau made 21 saves for Montreal (8-11-3). Mathieu Olivier and Yegor Chinakhov scored for Columbus (9-9-3). Zach Werenski had a Gordie Howe hat trick with a goal, an assist and a fight. Elvis Merzlikins made 19 saves. Takeaways Canadiens: Despite playing the second game of a back-to-back on the road, the Canadiens skated hard and rallied when they needed to before securing the win in overtime. Blue Jackets: Columbus squandered the lead twice as its three-game win streak ended. Key moment Kent Johnson lost an edge while skating up the ice in overtime, leading to an odd-man rush. Suzuki then buried his own rebound for the winning goal. Key stat Werenski’s assist on Olivier’s goal was his eighth in six games, tying Bryan Berard for the longest streak by a Blue Jackets defenseman. Werenski leads the team with 21 points (six goals, 15 assists). His 21 points in 21 games rank third among NHL defensemen this season. Columbus Blue Jackets forward Yegor Chinakhov, center, scores past Montreal Canadiens goalie Cayden Primeau, left, in front of Canadiens defenseman Jayden Struble during the second period of an NHL hockey game in Columbus, Ohio, Wednesday, Nov. 27, 2024. Credit: AP/Paul Vernon Up next The Canadiens visit the New York Rangers on Saturday afternoon, while the Blue Jackets host Calgary on Friday afternoon.
Stock market today: Wall Street gets back to climbing, sending Nasdaq to a record
Things are really starting to cook for Barakah Eats , a Surrey family business that makes South Asian-influenced, ready-to-eat meals sold in stores and served at a growing number of hospitals, schools and other institutions. Cooked and packaged at a Newton plant since 2019, the Khan family's butter chicken, channa masala, beef haleem and other products come frozen in bags and boxes, ready for the microwave. The company recently scored the Emerging Business trophy during the 2024 Rise Awards hosted by BC Food & Beverage, a not-for-profit association representing the province's food and beverage processing industry. Rushd Khan operates Barakah Eats with the help of father Zafar, mother Lubna, wife Arshiya and a dozen employees. "We're very proud of the award, which reinforces our mission since we've launched this business as an extension of our family business including the restaurant ( Gulberg Tandoor , located near the KPU Surrey campus in Newton)," Rushd said. "It (the award) will help with the growth of our businesses, for sure." In a competitive frozen-food market, key for Barakah Eats products is halal certification — food that adheres to Islamic dietary laws and regulations. "Some hospitals, like Surrey Memorial, Langley and BC Children's Hospital just this month, they started using some of our products for patient care because they're halal-certified," Rushd explained. "That has been a gap among hospital patients, who can now ask for halal-certified meals. The hospitals noticed that there was a lot of food waste, because some people couldn't eat the food." Barakah Eats products have been tasted at BC Halal Food Festivals at Holland Park in recent summers and will be featured at the new Halal Expo Vancouver, planned Feb. 7-8 at Cloverdale Agriplex (details on halalexpovancouver.com ). In Arabic, the company name means "blessings," a word embraced by the Khan family. "I never thought it would get to this, with people all over the place eating our food. It's unbelievable," patriarch Zafar Khan said. "Food is my passion, you know, so we have a tandoor in my backyard when we built our house, where we make naan," he added. "I went to back to Pakistan to learn how to make it, and at that time we didn't have a restaurant or anything yet." Looking ahead, the Khans aim to grow the Barakah Eats name in the food manufacturing market. "We see ourselves becoming more of a national company, hopefully by next year," Rushd said. "Right now our business is predominantly in B.C. We do some business outside of B.C. with our vegetarian products, but the meat license with CFIA certification (Canadian Food Inspection Agency), that's our target right now. Once we get over that hump, that opens up a lot of doors for us to start exporting across Canada and then outside of Canada as well. We already have a HACCP-certified facility." BC Food & Beverage's 2024 Rise Awards attracted 400 people to Anvil Centre in New Westminster on Nov. 29, a night when "exceptional leaders, innovators and brands" were recognized in 16 categories. “These awards showcase the talent, dedication and innovation that define B.C.’s food and beverage industry,” James Donaldson, CEO of BC Food & Beverage, raved in a news release, posted online . Other Rise Awards winners are Terra Breads (Hall of Fame inductee), Chocxo Chocolatier (Best in Brand), Vancouver Island Sea Salt (Circularity), Fine Choice Foods (Export), Authentic Indigenous Seafood (Indigenous Led Business of the Year), Blume (Innovation), Jeff Lee of Honey Bee Zen Apiaries (Leadership), Fine Choice Foods (Outstanding Workplace, Health & Safety), Salt Spring Kitchen Co. (People's Choice), Salt Spring Coffee (Social Impact), Chiwis (Sustainability) and Binny Boparai-Gill of Farming Karma Fruit Company (Woman Entrepreneur of the Year). Products of the year are Plant-based Crumbles-Chorizo, made by The Better Butchers (Gold award), Honey Salt Popcorn, Popstastic (Silver) and Dark Chocolate Lemon Crème Cups, Chocxo Chocolatier (Bronze).
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A space probe is on its way to an asteroid that may be filled with valuable metals worth some $10,000,000,000,000,000,000, or $10 quintillion. The asteroid, named 16 Psyche, is located in the Asteroid Belt between Mars and Jupiter. It is thought to be chock-full of valuable metals like gold, platinum and cobalt and therefore possibly worth 100,000 times the value of the world's $100 trillion gross domestic product. NASA launched a spacecraft, also named Psyche, from NASA 's Kennedy Space Center in Florida on October 13, 2023, and it is due to arrive at the asteroid in summer 2029. The $10 quintillion figure is based on the value of the asteroid's potential bounty if it were transported back to Earth and somehow mined. "That's something I've contemplated for a long time. Even if we could grab a big metal piece and drag it back here...what would you do?" Lindy Elkins-Tanton, the lead scientist on the NASA mission, told Global News in 2017. "Could you kind of sit on it and hide it and control the global resource—kind of like diamonds are controlled corporately—and protect your market? What if you decided you were going to bring it back and you were just going to solve the metal resource problems of humankind for all time? This is wild speculation obviously," said Elkins-Tanton, who is also the director of Arizona State University's School of Earth and Space Exploration. However, even if the Psyche mission does find that its namesake asteroid contains such riches, there is no way with our current technology to bring the asteroid home. Also, extracting materials from such a remote location would involve massive logistical and economic challenges. Even if mining somehow became feasible, the sudden influx of such a vast amount of metal into the world's economy would likely cause the metals' market prices to plummet, significantly reducing the asteroid's effective value. Psyche will orbit around the asteroid for over two years, coming within 47 miles of 16 Psyche's surface as it takes measurements of this strange asteroid. "I am excited to see the treasure trove of science Psyche will unlock as NASA's first mission to a metal world," said Nicola Fox , associate administrator for the Science Mission Directorate at NASA's headquarters, in a statement. There aren't many kinds of objects in our solar system we haven't seen up close with a spacecraft. Metal asteroids are one of them. Launching in 2022, #MissionToPsyche will explore a metal asteroid that may tell us more about the core of our own planet. https://t.co/KQqpKSeWoU pic.twitter.com/9gsaCRVsBb The potato-shaped asteroid Psyche is about 173 miles long and 144 miles across. It is between 186 million miles and 372 million-plus miles from the Earth, depending on where each is in its orbit around the sun. While the majority of other asteroids are made mostly of rock and ice, Psyche is thought to contain between 30 and 60 percent iron and nickel. This led scientists to suspect that Psyche is the metallic core of an early planet that never fully formed or perhaps another bizarre metal-rich body we don't know anything about. By investigating this unique asteroid, scientists hope to better understand how planets like our own formed in the early days of the solar system, some 4.5 billion years ago. "By studying asteroid Psyche, we hope to better understand our universe and our place in it, especially regarding the mysterious and impossible-to-reach metal core of our own home planet, Earth," Fox said. The van-sized Psyche spacecraft will hit speeds of up to 124,000 mph on its long journey to the asteroid and is due to slingshot past Mars in early 2026 before it arrives at Psyche in 2029. The craft is propelled using electric ion thrusters, which accelerate Psyche by churning out charged ions of xenon into the abyss. When Psyche arrives at its destination, it will spend at least 26 months analyzing the asteroid's surface composition, gravity and magnetic field, which will provide clues as to what the tiny world is made of. "This will be the first time we've sent a mission to a body that is not mostly rock or ice, but metal," Benjamin Weiss, an MIT professor of planetary science, said in a statement in October 2023, after the launch. "Not only is this asteroid potentially a metal world, but asteroids are building blocks of planets. So Psyche could tell us something about how planets formed." Do you have a tip on a science story that Newsweek should be covering? Do you have a question about Psyche? Let us know via science@newsweek.com.
Right or mightGlobalink Investment Inc. Announces Charter and Trust Agreement Amendments