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Best Buy posts another quarterly sales drop while Kohl’s sees slump deepen - The Associated PressShailene Woodley didn’t want to say much about Aaron Rodgers in a new interview, because, she said, reflecting on her relationship with the controversial NFL quarterback “always makes me cry.” During an overnight camping trip in Malibu with a reporter for Outside magazine , the 33-year-old actor and environmentalist also said that her relationship with Rodgers, which reportedly began during the COVID-19 pandemic and ended in February 2022, “was not right.” “But it was beautiful,” she added in the interview published Tuesday. Later in the conversation, Woodley also alluded to how difficult the relationship became and how devastated she was when it ended. She and Rodgers reportedly began dating during the pandemic lockdown in July 2020, around the time he ended his two-year relationship with race car driver Danica Patrick. The revealed their engagement in 2021. “I had a really awful, traumatic thing happen in early 2022,” Woodley told Outside later in the conversation. Yes, the “Divergent” star wasn’t being specific here about the “awful, traumatic thing,” but Outside noted that her engagement to the former Green Bay Packers quarterback was called off that February. “I felt like I lost my soul, my self, my happiness, my joy,” Woodley said. “I really understood depression and anxiety and, like, complete soul detachment.” Woodley also said she chose to remain in a “toxic situation” because she was empathizing with “someone else.” “Empathy,” she says, “kind of kept me in this loop of feeling everything for everyone.” For Outside magazine, the “Big Little Lies” actor was being profiled as the publication’s Outsider of the Year. In a previous interview, Woodley opened up about “the darkest, hardest time in my life,” taking place in the fall of 2021, a time that coincided with the final months of her relationship with Rodgers and when he sparked national controversy by ranting critically about the COVID-19 vaccine. In a 2023 interview with Net-A-Porter’s Porter magazine, Woodley talked about dating “somebody in America who was very, very famous,” without naming Rodgers. In the fall of 2021, she also was filming the series, “Three Women.” But she talked about how it was difficult to focus on her work. “It was winter in New York, and my personal life was (expletive), so it felt like a big pain bubble for eight months,” Woodley said to Porter magazine. “I was so grateful that at least I could go to work and cry and process my emotions through my character,” Woodley said. In early November 2021, Rodgers did serious damage to his public image as a popular NFL star by going on an angry anti-COVID vaccination rant on “The Pat McAfee Show.” The reigning Most Valuable Player was then accused of being an arrogant, narcissistic crackpot with a persecution complex after he claimed he was a victim of “the woke mob” and that the media had launched “a witch hunt” to pin him down on whether he had been vaccinated. Unfortunately for Woodley, she was caught up in Rodgers’ controversy, mainly by coming to his defense in ways that were seen as tone-deaf, given that public health officials had raised serious concerns about the potential harm caused by Rodgers’ anti-vaccination statements in the midst of a global pandemic. Woodley took to social media to post snarky, expletive-laced and even sexually suggestive Instagram defenses of Rodgers. Over the next month, one source close to Woodley and Rodgers told People that they were trying to make their relationship work, while another insider said that they “disagreed on a lot of things,” including politics, but that they tried to keep the peace by not debating those topics. But the likelihood of a split became apparent when the Chico-reared Rodgers failed to thank Woodley or even mention her name when he won his third NFL MVP award in early February 2022. Reports soon followed that they had ended their engagement. Rodgers then appeared again on “The Pat McAfee Show,” during which he said he didn’t regret speaking his mind about the COVID-19 vaccine, but said he regretted how those comments impacted his loved ones. Rodgers, now the embattled quarterback for the losing New York Jets , then apologized directly to Woodley — or “Shai” — and others, saying he was “very sorry” for the blowback they encountered. A year later, Woodley acknowledged to Porter that being in “a quote-unquote ‘famous’ relationship” became difficult. “It honestly never really hit me that millions of people around the world were actually watching these things and paid attention to them,” she said. “I watched (the) scrutiny, opinions, the desire for people to know my life and his life and our life — it just felt violating in a way that, before, it was fun. I’m a very private person, and so I found that any time I posted anything, I instantly felt like I was sharing too much of who I am with people I didn’t necessarily trust.”In March, newly installed Social Security chief Martin O’Malley criticized that “shock our shared sense of equity and good conscience as Americans.” He promised to overhaul the Social Security Administration’s to claw back money that — including people who are living in poverty, are elderly, or have disabilities — were allegedly overpaid, as described by a KFF Health News and Cox Media Group investigation last year. “Innocent people can be badly hurt,” O’Malley said at the time. Nearly eight months since he and announced a series of policy changes, and with two months left in his term, O’Malley’s effort to fix the system has made inroads but remains a work in progress. For instance, one change, moving away from withholding 100% of people’s monthly Social Security benefits to recover alleged overpayments, has been a major improvement, say advocates for beneficiaries. “It is a tremendous change,” said Kate Lang of Justice in Aging, who called it “life-changing for many people.” The number of people from whom the Social Security Administration was withholding full monthly benefits to recoup money declined sharply — from about 46,000 in January to about 7,000 in September, the agency said. Asked to clarify whether those numbers and others provided for this article covered all programs administered by the agency, the SSA press office did not respond. Another potentially significant change — relieving beneficiaries of having to prove that an overpayment was not their fault — has not been implemented. The agency said it is working on that. Meanwhile, the agency seems to be looking to Congress to take the lead on a change some observers see as crucial: limiting how far back the government can reach to recover an alleged overpayment. Barbara Hubbell of Watkins Glen, New York, called the absence of a statute of limitations “despicable.” Hubbell said her mother was held liable for $43,000 because of an SSA error going back 19 years. “In what universe is that even legal?” Hubbell said. Paying down the overpayment balance left her mother “essentially penniless,” she added. In response to questions for this article, Social Security spokesperson Mark Hinkle said legislation is “the best and fastest way” to set a time limit. Establishing a statute of limitations was not among the policy changes O’Malley announced in his March congressional testimony. In an interview at the time, he said he expected an announcement on it “within the next couple few months.” It could probably be done by regulation, without an act of Congress, he said. Speaking generally, Hinkle said the agency has “made substantial progress on overpayments,” reducing the hardship they cause, and “continues to work diligently” to update policies. The agency is underfunded, he added, is at a near 50-year low in staffing, and could do better with more employees. The SSA did not respond to requests for an interview with O’Malley. O’Malley announced the policy changes after KFF Health News and Cox Media Group jointly published and broadcast on the damage overpayments and clawbacks have done to millions of beneficiaries. When O’Malley, a former Democratic governor of Maryland, presented his plans to three congressional committees in March, lawmakers greeted him with rare bipartisan praise. But the past several months have shown how hard it can be to turn around a federal bureaucracy that is massive, complex, deeply dysfunctional, and, as it says, understaffed. Now O’Malley’s time may be running out. Lang of Justice in Aging, among the advocacy groups that have been meeting with O’Malley and other Social Security officials, said she appreciates how much the commissioner has achieved in a short time. But she added that O’Malley has “not been interested in hearing about our feelings that things have fallen short.” One long-standing policy O’Malley set out to change involves the burden of proof. When the Social Security Administration alleges someone has been overpaid and demands the money back, the burden is on the beneficiary to prove they were not at fault. Cecilia Malone, 24, a beneficiary in Lithonia, Georgia, said she and her parents spent hundreds of hours trying to get errors corrected. “Why is the burden on us to ‘prove’ we weren’t overpaid?” Malone said. It can be exceedingly difficult for beneficiaries to appeal a decision. The alleged overpayments, which can reach tens of thousands of dollars or more, often span years. And people struggling just to survive may have extra difficulty producing financial records from long ago. What’s more, in letters demanding repayment, the government does not typically spell out its case against the beneficiary — making it hard to mount a defense. Testifying before House and Senate committees in March, O’Malley promised to shift the burden of proof. “That should be on the agency,” he said. The agency expects to finalize “guidance” on the subject “in the coming months,” Hinkle said. The agency points to reduced wait times and other improvements in a phone system known to leave beneficiaries on hold. “In September, we answered calls to our national 800 number in an average of 11 minutes — a tremendous improvement from 42 minutes one year ago,” Hinkle said. Still, in response to a nonrepresentative survey by KFF Health News and Cox Media Group focused on overpayments, about half of respondents who said they contacted the agency by phone since April rated that experience as “poor,” and few rated it “good” or “excellent.” The survey was sent to about 600 people who had contacted KFF Health News to since September 2023. Almost 200 people answered the survey in September and October of this year. Most of those who said they contacted the agency by mail since April rated their experience as “poor.” Jennifer Campbell, 60, a beneficiary in Nelsonville, Ohio, said in late October that she was still waiting for someone at the agency to follow up as described during a phone call in May. “VERY POOR customer service!!!!!” Campbell wrote. “Nearly impossible to get a hold of someone,” wrote Kathryn Duff of Colorado Springs, Colorado, who has been helping a disabled family member. Letters from SSA have left Duff mystified. One was postmarked July 9, 2024, but dated more than two years earlier. Another, dated Aug. 18, 2024, said her family member was overpaid $31,635.80 in benefits from the Supplemental Security Income program, which provides money to people with or other resources who are disabled, blind, or at least 65. But Duff said her relative never received SSI benefits. What’s more, for the dates in question, payments listed in the letter to back up the agency’s math didn’t come close to $31,635.80; they totaled about a quarter of that amount. Regarding the 100% clawbacks, O’Malley in March said it’s “unconscionable that someone would find themselves facing homelessness or unable to pay bills, because Social Security withheld their entire payment for recovery of an overpayment.” He said that, starting March 25, if a beneficiary doesn’t respond to a new overpayment notice, the agency would default to withholding 10%. The agency warned of “a short transition period.” That change wasn’t automated until June 25, Hinkle said. The number of people newly placed in full withholding plummeted from 6,771 in February to 51 in September, according to data the agency provided. SSA said it would notify recipients they could request reduced withholding if it was already clawing back more than 10% of their monthly checks. Nonetheless, dozens of beneficiaries or their family members told KFF Health News and Cox Media Group they hadn’t heard they could request reduced withholding. Among those who did ask, roughly half said their requests were approved. According to the SSA, there has been almost a 20% decline in the number of people facing clawbacks of more than 10% but less than 100% of their monthly checks — from 141,316 as of March 8 to 114,950 as of Oct. 25, agency spokesperson Nicole Tiggemann said. Meanwhile, the number of people from whom the agency was withholding exactly 10% soared more than fortyfold — from just over 5,000 to well over 200,000. And the number of beneficiaries having any partial benefits withheld to recover an overpayment increased from almost 600,000 to almost 785,000, according to data Tiggemann provided. Lorraine Anne Davis, 72, of Houston, said she hasn’t received her monthly Social Security payment since June due to an alleged overpayment. Her Medicare premium was being deducted from her monthly benefit, so she’s been left to pay that out-of-pocket. Davis said she’s going to need a kidney transplant and had been trying to save money for when she’d be unable to work. A letter from the SSA dated April 8, 2024, two weeks after the new 10% withholding policy was slated to take effect, said it had overpaid her $13,538 and demanded she pay it back within 30 days. Apparently, the SSA hadn’t accounted for a pension Davis receives from overseas; Davis said she disclosed it when she filed for benefits. In a letter to her dated June 29, the agency said that, under its new policy, it would change the withholding to only 10% if she asked. Davis said she asked by phone repeatedly, and to no avail. “Nobody seems to know what’s going on” and “no one seems to be able to help you,” Davis said. “You’re just held captive.” In October, the agency said she’d receive a payment — in March 2025. ©2024 KFF Health News. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.qc zild 。

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Lions head into NFC title game rematch vs. 49ers seeking top seed more than revenge SANTA CLARA, Calif. (AP) — Dan Campbell stood at the podium after Detroit blew a 17-point lead to San Francisco in last season's NFC title game and talked about how that might have been the Lions' only shot at reaching the Super Bowl. Josh Dubow, The Associated Press Dec 26, 2024 3:55 PM Dec 26, 2024 4:05 PM Share by Email Share on Facebook Share on X Share on LinkedIn Print Share via Text Message San Francisco 49ers defensive tackle Khalil Davis (50) leaves the field at the end of an NFL football game against the Miami Dolphins, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2024, in Miami Gardens, Fla. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky) SANTA CLARA, Calif. (AP) — Dan Campbell stood at the podium after Detroit blew a 17-point lead to San Francisco in last season's NFC title game and talked about how that might have been the Lions' only shot at reaching the Super Bowl. The coach knew how difficult it would be to maintain that high level of play through injuries, attrition and with a target on their back as a top contender in the NFC. Eleven months later as Campbell and the Lions prepare to return to Levi's Stadium for the first time since that loss , that has proved to be prophetic — for San Francisco instead of Detroit. The Lions (13-2) head into the rematch Monday night with the inside track at the top seed in the NFC playoffs, while the 49ers (6-9) have already been eliminated from postseason contention . The element of revenge for last season's 34-31 loss is secondary for Detroit, considering what's on the line the last two weeks of the season. The Lions can clinch the top seed in the NFC by winning their final two games or with a win against the Niners if Minnesota loses to Green Bay on Sunday. “Anytime we lose, the thought of losing is going to motivate you to not want to lose again, particularly with where you were at,” Campbell said. “So, that’s always going to bring its own level of motivation to it. But this is where we’re at in the season, we know that we need another win, we understand where we’re at in the division and the NFC, so I think it’s all encompassing.” While the Lions have no need to search for motivation, that's not the case for the 49ers, who are playing out the string of a lost season after making losing back-to-back NFC title games in 2021-22 and the Super Bowl last season. A run of injuries to key players like Christian McCaffrey, Trent Williams, Nick Bosa and Brandon Aiyuk, combined with inconsistent play all season have led to the 49ers having nothing to play for in the final two games. “It’s obviously not where you want to be this time of year,” Bosa said. "It’s different, especially watching where we’re at last year against this team. Just that feeling of December, January football is a feeling that I’ve gotten used to being really competitive and being in the mix. I think we’re doing a good job of staying engaged and obviously this is our job, so we’re going to finish it strong. Go ing deep Detroit’s faith in Jameson Williams is paying off, taking advantage of his game-breaking abilities with big plays. Jared Goff heaved an 82-yard touchdown pass over Williams’ shoulders and into his hands in last week’s win at Chicago. Earlier this season, Goff threw 70-, 64- and 52-yard passes for scores to the third-year receiver. “We work on it a ton, him and I do, and it’s a testament to him,” Goff said. “He’s asking for it. He wants that work, and I’m more than happy to give it to him during the week. It’s good. Our connection continues to grow. He’s obviously one of the best deep threats in our league, even when it’s not perfect.” Makeshift line The 49ers head into the game scrambling to put together an offensive line. Williams has been out for more than a month with an ankle injury and his backup at left tackle, Jaylon Moore, is now sidelined by a quadriceps injury. Left guard Aaron Banks injured his knee last week, while his backup Ben Bartch is already out with an ankle injury. That will leave the Niners with two third-stringers protecting Brock Purdy. But Shanahan said he isn’t thinking of sitting Purdy to protect him. “People deal with that throughout the year on other weeks, too,” he said. “I mean, we’ve got a football team. We’ve got to go out and we’ve got two games here and we’ve got to see what guys we can put out there and whatever we do we’re going to put a game plan together to, as best as we can to give us a chance to win.” Bag of tricks Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson, who may have a chance for the second straight offseason to be an NFL head coach, routinely pulls off trick plays and his latest was a doozy. Goff intentionally stumbled after taking a snap and Jahmyr Gibbs went to the ground as their teammates yelled, “fumble,” to fool the Bears on a 21-yard touchdown pass to Sam LaPorta. “Those make you feel good because everybody is invested in it,” Campbell said. “It’s fun. It’s different. It’s sound. “I know it sounds crazy, but it’s sound.” Just for kicks San Francisco kicker Jake Moody is having a rough second season after being drafted in the third round a year ago. Moody has missed seven field goals this season, including a 41-yarder last week at Miami. Moody is just 10 for 16 since coming back from a high ankle sprain in his kicking foot, but Shanahan said he still has confidence in him. “I still feel the same about him, that I believe he’ll be our guy,” Shanahan said. "I mean everyone’s got to perform and do things like that. I think he has had a tough year. Before his high ankle sprain, he missed one. ... I think he was 12 of 13 before that, so I thought he was doing really well." ___ AP Sports Writer Larry Lage contributed to this report. ___ AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/nfl Josh Dubow, The Associated Press See a typo/mistake? Have a story/tip? This has been shared 0 times 0 Shares Share by Email Share on Facebook Share on X Share on LinkedIn Print Share via Text Message Get your daily Victoria news briefing Email Sign Up More Football (NFL) The hapless Giants will have one last chance to win at home when the Colts visit Sunday Dec 26, 2024 4:25 PM Titans WR Calvin Ridley wants to 'chirp' in his return to Jacksonville to face his former team Dec 26, 2024 4:24 PM Dolphins are on the outside of AFC playoffs and need help and a win over Browns to have any chance Dec 26, 2024 4:14 PM

Giants' 10th straight loss showed once again that they need a young QB

Nvidia is gearing up to transform the tech landscape with its revolutionary Blackwell chip, projected to be the standout story of 2025. According to Morgan Stanley, this next-generation GPU is set to alleviate investor concerns and fuel a 20% stock surge. In a recent report, Morgan Stanley reaffirmed its “overweight” rating on Nvidia, designating it as their “top pick” for the coming year. The bank’s optimism springs from Blackwell’s expected triumph — a cutting-edge chip with advanced AI capabilities. Analysts propose a future stock price of $166, marking a 23% increase from its current value of $134.82. The bank’s strategists suggest that, while Nvidia faces transitional challenges, by mid-2025, conversations will likely revolve solely around Blackwell’s impressive capabilities. Investor confidence is already on the rise, with Blackwell’s slated launch in early 2025. Nvidia’s stock experienced a boost after CEO Jensen Huang highlighted the unprecedented demand for Blackwell, further elevating Wall Street’s profit forecasts. Nvidia’s promising new chip could also quell short-term anxieties surrounding the stock. For instance, a slowdown in the production of its current-generation AI chips, Hopper, is viewed as a temporary issue by Morgan Stanley. Despite concerns over staggered shipments of Blackwell’s variants, analysts expect full sales coverage throughout the year. By the latter half of 2025, Nvidia’s Blackwell is anticipated to be the driving force behind significant revenue growth, potentially dispelling any lingering investor worries. Nvidia’s Blackwell Chip: The Game-Changer in Tech for 2025 Nvidia is poised to make headlines with its revolutionary Blackwell chip, projected to be the pivotal tech innovation story of 2025. This next-generation GPU is not just a beacon of technological prowess but also a major catalyst for Nvidia’s expected stock resurgence. Morgan Stanley’s analysis suggests a remarkable 20% increase in Nvidia’s stock, attributing this rise primarily to Blackwell’s capabilities. Features and Specifications While specific technical specifications for Blackwell remain under wraps, industry insiders expect it to feature state-of-the-art AI capabilities that will far surpass current-generation GPUs. This new chip is predicted to offer superior computational power, energy efficiency, and enhanced processing speeds, catering to an ever-growing demand for more robust AI and machine learning applications. Innovations and Predictions The Blackwell chip is at the center of Nvidia’s strategy to maintain its dominance in the semiconductor industry. Speculative reports suggest that it will incorporate advanced semiconductor technology, leveraging recent innovations in chip manufacturing. This could include smaller process nodes and new materials, which might set new benchmarks for performance and efficiency. Market Impact and Investor Confidence Morgan Stanley’s analysts have shown unwavering optimism regarding Nvidia’s prospects, reaffirming an “overweight” rating and heralding it as the “top pick” for 2025. Investors seem increasingly confident, as evidenced by a heightened interest following Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang’s commentary on the unprecedented demand for Blackwell. Their strategic predictions include a future stock price of $166, indicating a potential 23% increase from the present value of $134.82. Use Cases and Applications The Blackwell chip is expected to revolutionize various sectors by driving technological advancements in artificial intelligence, autonomous vehicles, cloud computing, and gaming. These sectors are predicted to benefit significantly from the chip’s enhanced processing capabilities, potentially leading to groundbreaking innovations and applications. Comparisons: Blackwell vs. Hopper Compared to Nvidia’s current Hopper chip, Blackwell is anticipated to provide substantial improvements in performance and efficiency. While the Hopper has been a strong player in AI processing, the Blackwell chip aims to resolve existing bottlenecks related to speed and power consumption. This transition highlights Nvidia’s commitment to continuous innovation and adaptation to market needs. Challenges and Limitations Despite the promising outlook, Nvidia faces potential challenges related to production and supply chain dynamics. The recent slowdown in Hopper chip production serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of semiconductor manufacturing. However, analysts at Morgan Stanley view these challenges as temporary, expecting the full rollout of Blackwell to rectify these issues by late 2025. Conclusion: The Future of Nvidia with Blackwell Nvidia’s Blackwell chip is poised to be a transformative force in the tech industry, underpinning significant advancements and potentially leading to substantial revenue growth. By overcoming transitional hurdles and capitalizing on Blackwell’s potential, Nvidia is well-positioned to maintain its leadership in the evolving landscape of technology. For more information on Nvidia and its latest innovations, visit Nvidia’s official site .First-ever athlete and fan-owned network boasts 2,200 Fan Owners and 70+ superstar athlete investors and partners by the likes of Chris Paul , Travis Kelce , Dwayne Wade , Chiney Ogwumike, Kyrie Irving, Damian Lillard , Natasha Cloud , Alysha Clark , Carmelo Anthony , and many more LOS ANGELES , Dec. 20, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- PlayersTV , the first athlete and fan-owned media company, today announced the acquisition of Cloud Media Center , an AI-driven sports adtech and media distribution company. This strategic year-end move boosts PlayersTV's reach to a total of 500 million monthly ad impressions, solidifying its position as a trailblazer in athlete-driven lifestyle entertainment while broadening its ability to connect with advertiser and inventory networks. PlayersTV empowers athletes to control their narratives while giving brands access to engagement opportunities with an expansive global audience. It is known for its groundbreaking athlete-fan ownership model, supported by more than 70 high-profile athlete investors and partners across the NFL, NBA, WNBA, and MLB, and a community of more than 2,200 Fan Owners (shareholders in the company). The network features high-profile athletes, including Travis Kelce , Chris Paul , Damian Lillard , Dwyane Wade , Chiney Ogwumike, Carmelo Anthony , Allen Iverson , Natasha Cloud , Kyrie Irving, Ken Griffey, Jr. , Vernon Davis , Austin Ekeler , DeAndre Jordan , CJ McCollum, AJ Andrews, Angel McCoughtry , Alysha Clark , and more. PlayersTV currently reaches more than 300 million households via OTT and CTV via DirecTV, YouTube TV, Sling TV, Amazon Fire TV, and Philo . Its proprietary ad network called Players360 generates an additional 500 million monthly ad impressions. Through the acquisition of Cloud Media Center, PlayersTV now owns technologies responsible for more than 1 billion combined monthly ad impressions. "This is a transformative moment for PlayersTV and the future of sports media," said Deron Guidrey , co-founder of PlayersTV. "The acquisition of Cloud Media Center catapults us into a new era of innovation, expanding our reach to an astounding 500 million monthly ad impressions. With cutting-edge AI technology now at the core of our operations, we are setting the gold standard for athlete-driven media, revolutionizing how athletes connect with fans and how brands engage with audiences worldwide. This is more than an acquisition, it's a declaration of our vision to lead the global sports media industry." PlayersTV Co-founder Collin Castellaw added, "This acquisition is a monumental step forward for our organization. By integrating Cloud Media Center's AI-driven tech we're significantly expanding our reach while revolutionizing how athletes and sports content is created, distributed and consumed. This is an exciting time for our company and the future of athlete media and sports media." Cloud Media Center's innovative platform brings state-of-the-art AI technology to PlayersTV, enabling more precise audience targeting, dynamic content distribution, and scalable adtech. With this acquisition, PlayersTV is poised to deliver highly personalized and impactful content experiences, meeting the growing demand for athlete-centered stories and authentic fan connections. About PlayersTV PlayersTV is the first-ever athlete-owned media network and content provider. As the premier athlete lifestyle content destination, PlayersTV empowers athletes to own their stories while engaging fans with authentic and meaningful connections, bridging the worlds of sports, lifestyle, and entertainment. PlayersTV's 24/7 channel can be found on DirecTV, YouTube TV, Sling TV, Amazon Fire TV, and Philo . See more at https://playerstv.com/ . About Cloud Media Center Cloud Media Center (CMC), based in Ponte Vedra, FL , sells digital advertising inventory through a cloud-based, analytically driven distribution platform that seamlessly connects advertisers with content providers and publishers. The result maximizes collaboration — unleashing next-level ad campaign synergies. CMC's next-gen platform and best-in-class dashboards — built by next-generation premier developers — provide AI-based microtargeting on the frontend, and real-time, easy-to-understand analytics on the back end. Content producers, advertisers, and publishers will have all the tools and data needed to optimize campaigns — and do it with speed and granular accuracy. Visit the CMC website at https://cloudmc.us/ . View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/playerstv-acquires-cloud-media-center-integrates-sports-ai-ad-technology-to-surpass-1b-monthly-impressions-302337699.html SOURCE PlayersTVLOS ANGELES — Shohei Ohtani is keeping elite company. The Japanese superstar caps 2024 by winning The Associated Press Male Athlete of the Year for the third time, tying him with basketball great Michael Jordan. He trails only four-time winners Lance Armstrong, Tiger Woods and LeBron James. "I'm very honored," Ohtani said through translator Matt Hidaka in an exclusive interview with the AP. "Obviously all the hard work has paid off. Maybe next year, I'll get the award again." In balloting by 74 sports journalists from the AP and its members, Ohtani received 48 votes. He previously won the award in 2023 and 2021, when he was with the Angels. "Growing up in Japan, I did follow Michael Jordan and Tiger Woods," he said. "I would see their accolades and how they were successful in the United States." The AP honor has been given out since 1931. Golfer Babe Didrikson won six times, the most by a man or woman. Swimmer Léon Marchand of France, who won four gold medals at the Paris Olympics, was second with 10 votes in balloting announced Monday. Golfer Scottie Scheffler, whose victories this year included the Masters and an Olympic gold medal, was third with nine. The AP Female Athlete of the Year will be announced Tuesday. Moving from the beleaguered Los Angeles Angels to the powerhouse Los Angeles Dodgers, Ohtani won his third Most Valuable Player award and first in the National League, led his new team to its eighth World Series championship and created Major League Baseball's 50/50 club by hitting 54 home runs and stealing 59 bases. Ohtani signed a then-record $700 million, 10-year contract with the Dodgers in December 2023. Already a two-way superstar, he embellished his reputation even further despite not pitching all season while he rehabilitated from a second major right elbow surgery he had in September 2023. Ohtani went wild on offense, making every at-bat a must-see moment. The 6-foot-4 designated hitter batted a career-high .310 while easily surpassing his previous career highs in home runs and stolen bases. In September, he reached the previously unheard of 50/50 mark in a performance for the ages. Against the Miami Marlins in Florida, Ohtani went 6 for 6 with three homers, 10 RBIs, two stolen bases and 17 total bases. "It wouldn't shock me if he went 60/60 and 20 wins a year from now," Brad Ausmus, who managed the Angels in 2019 during Ohtani's second season in Anaheim, said recently. "This guy is the greatest athlete to ever play the sport of baseball and there's not a close second." Ohtani said he knew the Dodgers' franchise record for most homers in a season was 49. His previous best was 46, set in 2021. "I kind of wanted to get over that bar," he said. "I was pleasantly surprised I was able to pass that record." Ohtani carried the Dodgers offensively during the regular season, and he stayed healthy until Game 2 of the World Series. He injured his left shoulder trying to steal second base against the New York Yankees and finished the Series playing hurt. He underwent surgery a few days after the Dodgers celebrated their championship in early November. "I don't have full range of motion yet, but it feels a lot better," he told the AP. "There's no pain. There's obviously still a little bit of tightness, but slowly but surely it's getting better." Ohtani recently received an updated rehab schedule, and he's focused on the near-term. "It's the small steps that I think are very important to get me to the ultimate goal, which is to just get back healthy," he said. Ohtani is also throwing in the 70 mph range, which is typical for pitchers early in the offseason. "I'm going to continue to ramp up slowly," he said. The Dodgers' rotation for next season is in flux, and Ohtani is waiting to see how it shakes out. "We may go with a five-man rotation with a bullpen (game), which is what we did a lot during this season or we may have a six-man rotation," he said. "But it's all about balancing out when we can get rest and recuperate. We'll see where that takes us along the playoff chase. I've got to obviously pace myself, but again that situation will guide us to how we get there." The Dodgers open the 2025 season in Japan, where Ohtani is even more closely watched. "My personal goal is to be fully healthy by the time the opening games do start," he said. "To be able to pitch and hit would be great, but the situation will kind of guide itself." Each time Ohtani comes to the plate or steps on the mound, there's great pressure and expectation for him to perform spectacular feats. "I just go out there and try to stay within myself," he said. "I can only control what I can control and that's where you trust your teammates. The guys behind me, you trust they're going to make the plays for you. I don't really try to overthink it." Ohtani generated big bucks for the Dodgers off the field, too. Fans traveled from Japan in droves to see him play around the U.S. At Dodger Stadium, they paid extra for tours of baseball's third-oldest venue narrated by Japanese-speaking guides and to be on the field during pre-game batting practice. A majority of the fans bought Ohtani-branded merchandise, especially his No. 17 jersey. Ohtani's presence also helped the Dodgers land a bevy of new Japanese sponsors. Because Ohtani prefers to speak Japanese and use an interpreter with the media, he is shrouded in a bit of mystique. Asked before his first postgame series if he was nervous, he dropped a one-word answer in English: "Nope," which drew laughter. Japanese-born Dodgers manager Dave Roberts observed Ohtani's behind-the-scenes interactions with his teammates, coaches and staff, and came away impressed. "I really do believe that as good of a ballplayer as he is, he's a much better person. He's very kind, considerate, he cares," Roberts told the AP. "I'm just proud of any fame or glory or award that he receives because he just does it in such a respectful and humble way." Ohtani relishes his privacy and rarely shares details about himself off the field. That's why his February announcement via Instagram that he had wed Mamiko Tanaka, a former basketball player, stunned his new teammates and the rest of the world. The following month, after the Dodgers arrived in South Korea to open the season, he was enveloped in scandal when his longtime interpreter and friend, Ippei Mizuhara, was fired by the Dodgers after being accused of using millions of dollars of Ohtani's money to place bets with an illegal bookmaker. His new teammates rallied around Ohtani, who was found to have no part in the wrongdoing, and publicly it didn't seem to affect him even if he was privately distressed by it. By June, the uproar had subsided. Mizuhara pleaded guilty to federal bank and tax fraud charges and admitted to stealing nearly $17 million from Ohtani. The public got a glimpse of Ohtani's softer side in August, when his dog Decoy delivered a first pitch to his owner on their shared bobblehead night. The Nederlandse Kooikerhondje exchanged an endearing high-five with Ohtani at the plate. As a result, Decoy became a celebrity in his own right, with his breed (pronounced COY-ker-HUND-che) making the list of the most mispronounced words of 2024. He and Ohtani were mentioned during the telecast of last month's National Dog Show, where the small Spaniel-type breed was among the competitors. "The number of the breed has kind of dwindled, so by him gaining a little bit of popularity hopefully that brings up the number of his breed," Ohtani said. "I do feel like we were able to, in a small way, contribute to the popularity of the dog and I'm sure Decoy himself would be happy about that." Ohtani will be looking to top himself next year while eyeing a repeat World Series title. "It's almost like right now you can lock in the Most Valuable Player in the National League award because no one has that ability or talent," Roberts said. "I'm just excited to see what '25 has for Shohei Ohtani." Get local news delivered to your inbox!

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Introduction to Free Fire Max: Free Fire Max, the advanced version of the popular Free Fire game, is redefining mobile gaming with its enhanced graphics and immersive gameplay. As the gaming community yearns for more realistic experiences on-the-go, Free Fire Max stands as a testament to the potential of mobile technology. This latest iteration isn’t just an upgrade; it’s a revolution shaped by cutting-edge enhancements that promise to elevate the typical battle royale experience. Technological Advancements: Free Fire Max introduces Ultra HD graphics , which provide stunningly detailed environments and lifelike character designs. This technological leap means players can enjoy more intricate landscapes and richer textures, offering a console-quality visual experience on mobile devices. Furthermore, with the addition of a customizable map feature, players can personalize their battles like never before, adding layers of strategy and engagement previously unseen in mobile gaming. The Future of Mobile Gaming: The emergence of Free Fire Max highlights a critical shift toward high-fidelity graphics in mobile games, pushing boundaries and setting new industry standards. This evolution suggests a future where more complex gameplay and visually compelling narratives become the norm. As devices continue to integrate high-performance processors and superior display technologies, games like Free Fire Max may lead to a broader acceptance of mobile platforms as the primary gaming interface among enthusiasts. Conclusion: Free Fire Max isn’t just a new version of an old game; it’s a futuristic leap for mobile gamers. As technology advances, games like Free Fire Max signal a thrilling evolution, paving a path to explore limitless possibilities in mobile gaming. Whether you’re a casual player or a dedicated gamer, Free Fire Max offers a glimpse into the revolutionary future of the gaming landscape. Revolutionizing Mobile Gaming: The Impact of Free Fire Max in 2023 Introduction to Free Fire Max’s Innovations Free Fire Max, the enhanced version of the popular Free Fire game, is not just a sequel; it signifies a transformative leap in mobile gaming technology. As players demand more realistic and immersive experiences, Free Fire Max delivers with its advanced graphics and strategic gameplay. This version is reshaping the mobile gaming landscape, proving the immense potential of current mobile technologies. Advanced Features and Their Impacts Free Fire Max boasts Ultra HD graphics that significantly improve how players perceive gaming environments. These enhancements provide more detailed and lifelike character designs, mimicking the quality found in console and PC gaming. The customizable map feature is another innovation, allowing players to infuse personal strategy into their gaming sessions, thus enriching engagement and depth. Furthermore, Free Fire Max supports higher frame rates and enhanced sound quality, contributing to a more engrossing gameplay experience. These technological improvements not only attract existing players but also entice newcomers who seek high-quality gaming on their mobile devices. Pros and Cons of Free Fire Max Pros: – Visual Excellence: Ultra HD graphics provide a stunning visual experience. – Enhanced Engagement: Customizable maps and strategic gameplay options increase player involvement. – Seamless Compatibility: Compatible with most modern mobile devices, thanks to smart optimization. Cons: – High System Requirements: Demands higher processing power and storage space, potentially limiting accessibility for users with older devices. – Increased Data Consumption: Enhanced graphics and features may result in higher data usage. Security and Sustainability in Gaming Free Fire Max prioritizes player security with robust anti-cheat mechanisms, ensuring fair play across the board. Sustainability is also a key focus, driven by optimizations that reduce battery consumption and improve device performance longevity, aligning with the global push towards environmentally-friendly tech solutions. Predictions and Future Trends The enhancements seen in Free Fire Max point towards an industry trend where mobile games are becoming indistinguishable from their console counterparts in terms of quality and complexity. This sets a precedent for future mobile games, encouraging developers to invest in high-fidelity graphics and intricate gameplay mechanics. As mobile devices continue to evolve, incorporating more powerful processors and displays, we can expect games like Free Fire Max to become increasingly common. This progression may lead to mobile gaming becoming a primary platform for a broader audience, particularly in regions where console ownership is less prevalent. Conclusion and Further Exploration Free Fire Max not only augments an existing game; it pioneers a path towards revolutionary mobile gaming experiences. Its focus on high-definition graphics and strategic engagement highlights the industry’s shift towards more sophisticated mobile gaming solutions, promising an exciting future for players and developers alike. For more insights into the future of mobile gaming and innovations such as those seen in Free Fire Max, visit Garena’s main website . Explore the latest trends, updates, and community discussions surrounding the evolving landscape of mobile gaming technology.

It looked like a recipe for disaster. So, when his country’s swimmers were being accused of doping earlier this year, one Chinese official cooked up something fast. He blamed it on contaminated noodles. In fact, he argued, it could have been a culinary conspiracy concocted by criminals, whose actions led to the cooking wine used to prepare the noodles being laced with a banned heart drug that found its way into an athlete’s system. This theory was spelled out to international anti-doping officials during a meeting and, after weeks of wrangling, finally made it into the thousands of pages of data handed over to the lawyer who investigated the who had tested positive for that same drug. The attorney, appointed by the World Anti-Doping Agency, refused to consider that scenario as he sifted through the evidence. In spelling out his reasoning, lawyer Eric Cottier paid heed to the half-baked nature of the theory. “The Investigator considers this scenario, which he has described in the conditional tense, to be possible, no less, no more,” Cottier wrote. Even without the contaminated-noodles theory, Cottier found problems with the way WADA and the Chinese handled the case but ultimately determined WADA in not appealing China’s conclusion that its athletes had been inadvertently contaminated. Critics of the way the China case was handled can’t help but wonder if a wider exploration of the noodle theory, details of which were discovered by The Associated Press via notes and emails from after the meeting where it was delivered, might have lent a different flavor to Cottier’s conclusions. “There are more story twists to the ways the Chinese explain the TMZ case than a James Bond movie,” said Rob Koehler, the director general of the advocacy group Global Athlete. “And all of it is complete fiction.” Something in the kitchen was contaminated In April, reporting from the New York Times and the German broadcaster ARD revealed that the 23 Chinese swimmers had tested positive for the banned heart medication trimetazidine, also known as TMZ. China’s anti-doping agency determined the athletes had been contaminated, and so, did not sanction them. , did not press the case further, and China was never made to deliver a public notice about the “no-fault findings,” as is often seen in similar cases. The stock explanation for the contamination was that traces of TMZ were found in the kitchen of a hotel where the swimmers were staying. In , Cottier relayed some suspicions about the feasibility of that chain of events — noting that WADA’s chief scientist “saw no other solution than to accept it, even if he continued to have doubts about the reality of contamination as described by the Chinese authorities.” But without evidence to support pursuing the case, and with the chance of winning an appeal at almost nil, Cottier determined WADA’s “decision not to appeal appears indisputably reasonable.” But how did the drugs get into the kitchen? A mystery remained: How did those traces of TMZ get into the kitchen? Shortly after the doping positives were revealed, the Institute of National Anti-Doping Organizations held a meeting on April 30 where it heard from the leader of China’s agency, Li Zhiquan. Li’s presentation was mostly filled with the same talking points that have been delivered throughout the saga — that the positive tests resulted from contamination from the kitchen. But he expanded on one way the kitchen might have become contaminated, harkening to another case in China involving a low-level TMZ positive. A pharmaceutical factory, he explained, had used industrial alcohol in the distillation process for producing TMZ. The industrial alcohol laced with the drug “then entered the market through illegal channels,” he said. The alcohol “was re-used by the perpetrators to process and produce cooking wine, which is an important seasoning used locally to make beef noodles,” Li said. “The contaminated beef noodles were consumed by that athlete, resulting in an extremely low concentration of TMZ in the positive sample. “The wrongdoers involved have been brought to justice.” New information sent to WADA ... eventually This new information raised eyebrows among the anti-doping leaders listening to Li’s report. So much so that over the next month, several emails ensued to make sure the details about the noodles and wine made their way to WADA lawyers, who could then pass it onto Cottier. Eventually, Li did pass on the information to WADA general counsel Ross Wenzel and, just to be sure, one of the anti-doping leaders forwarded it, as well, according to the emails seen by the AP. All this came with Li’s request that the noodles story be kept confidential. Turns out, it made it into Cottier’s report, though he took the information with a grain of salt. “Indeed, giving it more attention would have required it to be documented, then scientifically verified and validated,” he wrote. Neither Wenzel nor officials at the Chinese anti-doping agency returned messages from AP asking about the noodles conspiracy and the other athlete who Li suggested had been contaminated by them. Meanwhile, 11 of the swimmers who originally tested positive competed at the Paris Games earlier this year in a meet held under the cloud of the Chinese doping case. Though WADA considers the case closed, Koehler and others point to situations like this as one of many reasons that an investigation by someone other than Cottier, who was hired by WADA, is still needed. “It gives the appearance that people are just making things up as they go along on this, and hoping the story just goes away,” Koehler said. “Which clearly it has not.” ___ AP Olympics:Vance takes on a more visible transition role, working to boost Trump’s most contentious picks

Vinnies NSW reveals brand identity refresh via Houston GroupThe South African National Parks (SANParks) has reminded day visitors planning to visit the Kruger National Park (KNP) during the festive season that gate quotas will be in place. “Visitors are urged to observe the park’s rules, which are primarily intended to ensure safe and pleasant experiences. By respecting these rules, visitors contribute to the preservation of the park’s natural beauty and the safety of all its inhabitants,” SANParks said in a statement. Visitors are further urged to plan their trips and allow sufficient time to enjoy the bush, relax, and arrive safely at their destination. Visitors are advised to book online ahead of their visit. Special attention is also drawn to operational times as it pertains to the gate quotas: • Time slot 1: 05.30 to 08:00 • Time slot 2: 08:00 to 10:00 • Time slot 3: 10:00 onwards The Kruger National Park has the following entrance gates: Crocodile Bridge, Malelane, Numbi, Phabeni, Paul Kruger, Orpen, Phalaborwa, Punda Maria, Pafuri, and Giriyondo Port of Entry. “The Day Visitor Quota for the Park is a management tool to prevent overcrowding on the roads and facilities; it is applied throughout the year, although we mostly reach carrying capacity during long weekends and school holidays,” SANParks said. Visitors should take note of the following: • All guests (drivers and passengers) will be required to identify themselves upon admission (by producing a South African driver’s license, identity document or passport); please ensure you are in possession of one of these documents and have them ready. • Pre-booking is crucial for day visitors, as it allows them to secure up to 80% of the Day Visitor Quota per gate. This can be done via SANParks Reservations offices at 012 428 9111 and online at www.sanparks.org. • Day visitor pre-bookings are subject to a non-refundable booking fee of R56 per adult and R28 per child, which must be paid in advance. This fee ensures their space because they would have been counted in the number that made the daily quota. • Day visitors who have pre-booked will still be required to pay Conservation Fees or use a valid Wild Card to enter the Park. The Conservation Fee for SA residents as well as Zimbabwe and Mozambique nationals (passport required to prove this) is R128 per adult and R64 per child (between ages 2 – 11). For nationals of Eswatini and other SADC countries, the conservation fees are R257 per adult and R128 per child. The standard conservation fees of R535 for adults and R257 for children apply to all other guests. • Pre-booked day visitors are prioritised at the gate but must arrive within their booked time slots. Late arrivals will be treated as non-booked and will not receive preference. It’s also important to note that Wild Card members are not exempt from the pre-booking fee. • Once the daily quota has been reached, only people who made pre-bookings are allowed to enter. The rest will have to queue and rely on the people moving out of the park to create space for them; this situation does not affect overnight guests. • Guests are reminded of the secure and convenient cash-free payment system at the gates (Paul Kruger, Phabeni, Numbi, Malelane and Crocodile Bridge) and fuel stations in the southern part of the park. This system ensures a smooth and hassle-free entry and exit from the park. “Vehicles without licence plates will not be allowed to enter/exit the park at the entrance gates; any vehicle found inside the park without front and rear licence plates will be impounded, and the driver will be charged under the NEMPA [National Environmental Management: Protected Areas] Act and fined. “Ranger services, South African National Defence Force (SANDF), and Protection Services will be in full force to ensure compliance and prevent poaching. “The upgraded camera technology will assist them, vigilant law enforcers, and the public, who have shared information to assist in numerous arrests,” SANParks said. Are you planning on visiting the Kruger National Park this festive season? Let us know by clicking on the comment tab below this article or by emailing info@thesouthafrican.com or sending a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1 Subscribe to The South African website’s newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp for the latest news.

SNK-396 is under clinical development by Synerk and currently in Phase I for Lipid Disorders. According to GlobalData, Phase I drugs for Lipid Disorders have a 69% phase transition success rate (PTSR) indication benchmark for progressing into Phase II. GlobalData tracks drug-specific phase transition and likelihood of approval scores, in addition to indication benchmarks based off 18 years of historical drug development data. Attributes of the drug, company and its clinical trials play a fundamental role in drug-specific PTSR and likelihood of approval. SNK-396 overview SNK-396 is under development for the treatment of elevated low-density lipoprotein cholesterol. It is administered through subcutaneous route and is being developed based on siRNA technology platform. Synerk overview Synerk is engaged in providing biotechnology services. It develops RNA targeted medicines for breast cancer, lung cancer, mouth cancer and stomach cancer. This company is headquartered in Concord, Massachusetts, the US. For a complete picture of SNK-396’s drug-specific PTSR and LoA scores, This content was updated on 12 April 2024 From Blending expert knowledge with cutting-edge technology, GlobalData’s unrivalled proprietary data will enable you to decode what’s happening in your market. You can make better informed decisions and gain a future-proof advantage over your competitors. , the leading provider of industry intelligence, provided the underlying data, research, and analysis used to produce this article. GlobalData’s Likelihood of Approval analytics tool dynamically assesses and predicts how likely a drug will move to the next stage in clinical development (PTSR), as well as how likely the drug will be approved (LoA). This is based on a combination of machine learning and a proprietary algorithm to process data points from various databases found on GlobalData’s .

Shailene Woodley still cries over ‘toxic’ Aaron Rodgers relationship

None‘I have to be here. My family understands’: Christmas on the frontline with Ukraine’s drone brigade

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