Beyond Air, Inc. (NASDAQ:XAIR) Short Interest Down 24.4% in DecemberCalifornia governor says state could offer electric vehicle rebates if Trump eliminates federal tax credit
A butterfly collector in Africa with more than 4.2 million seeks to share them for the futureCORK, Ireland , Dec. 5, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The board of directors of Johnson Controls International plc (NYSE: JCI), the global leader in smart, healthy and sustainable buildings, has approved a regular quarterly dividend of $0.37 per share of common stock, payable on Jan. 17, 2025 , to shareholders of record at the close of business on Dec. 23, 2024 . Johnson Controls has paid a consecutive dividend since 1887. About Johnson Controls At Johnson Controls (NYSE:JCI), we transform the environments where people live, work, learn and play. As the global leader in smart, healthy and sustainable buildings, our mission is to reimagine the performance of buildings to serve people, places and the planet. Building on a proud history of nearly 140 years of innovation, we deliver the blueprint of the future for industries such as healthcare, schools, data centers, airports, stadiums, manufacturing and beyond through OpenBlue, our comprehensive digital offering. Today, with a global team of experts, Johnson Controls offers the world`s largest portfolio of building technology and software as well as service solutions from some of the most trusted names in the industry. Visit www.johnsoncontrols.com for more information and follow @Johnson Controls on social platforms. INVESTOR CONTACT: Jim Lucas Direct: +1 414.340.1752 Email: jim.lucas@jci.com MEDIA CONTACT: Danielle Canzanella Direct: +1 203.499.8297 Email: danielle.canzanella@jci.com View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/johnson-controls-announces-quarterly-dividend-302324312.html SOURCE Johnson Controls International plc
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New Delhi, December 28: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Saturday met prominent leaders in the national capital to invite them to the grand Mahakumbh 2025, set to take place in Prayagraj, an official said. Among those the Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister met were former President Ram Nath Kovind, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) National President J.P. Nadda, Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, and Mizoram Governor Gen (retd) V.K. Singh. Maha Kumbh Mela 2025: South Central Railway To Run 16 Special Trains for Devotees, Check Details and Train Routes Here. A statement mentioned that Adityanath presented each dignitary with an official invitation along with symbolic gifts. The Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister was in Delhi on Saturday to invite these dignitaries for the Mahakumbh to be held from January 13 to February 26, 2025. His first meeting was with Mizoram Governor Gen (retd) V.K. Singh at Uttar Pradesh Bhawan, where he extended the invitation. Following this, Adityanath met former President Ram Nath Kovind at his official residence to invite him to the grand event. Mahakumbh Mela 2025: Yogi Adityanath Led-UP Government To Invite All Chief Ministers Across Nation for Prayagraj Maha Kumbh. He then visited the official residences of Home Minister Amit Shah, BJP National President J.P. Nadda and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh to extend the invitation. "Today I had a courtesy meeting with Union Minister of Home and Cooperation, Amit Shah ji in New Delhi. Thank you very much for providing your valuable time!" the Uttar Pradesh CM later wrote on X. After meeting J.P. Nadda, CM Adityanath posted on X: "Today I had a courtesy meeting with National President of BJP and Union Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda ji in New Delhi. Thank you very much for providing your valuable time!" As part of the courtesy meetings, the Uttar Pradesh CM presented each dignitary with symbolic gifts, including a logo of Mahakumbh 2025, a Kalash (sacred urn), literature about the event, and a New Year desk calendar and diary, the statement read. On his social media platform, Yogi Adityanath also shared pictures of these meetings and expressed gratitude to the dignitaries for their valuable time. With just 15 days until Mahakumbh begins, the Uttar Pradesh government led by Yogi Adityanath is intensifying efforts to invite distinguished personalities and the general public from across states. As part of this initiative, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath's visit to Delhi aimed to encourage widespread participation in the grand event, the statement mentioned. (The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Dec 28, 2024 11:26 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com ).Navigating through California’s busy suburban areas can be a daunting task, especially during rush hours. With traffic often reaching a standstill, these periods pose a significant challenge for daily commuters. To mitigate the risks and ensure a smoother journey, adopting strategic driving techniques is essential for safety in heavy traffic. Increasing awareness about the dense traffic common on California roads can lead to improved commuting experiences. Understanding the dynamics of peak traffic times and planning accordingly can help individuals avoid unnecessary delays. In addition, recognizing the high potential for car accidents in suburban regions, and taking steps to enhance personal safety, becomes vital. Adopting simple safety measures, such as maintaining a safe distance and adjusting travel time, can significantly improve daily commutes. For those confronted with the consequences of a car accident, consulting legal support for accidents can be crucial. Emphasizing the importance of these proactive steps not only enhances personal safety but also contributes to a more efficient flow of traffic in congested areas. California’s traffic dynamics present unique challenges due to its varied landscape and dense urban centers. Commuters must navigate not only heavy traffic and rush hours but also adverse weather conditions that can impact road safety and visibility. Rush hours in California significantly increase traffic congestion, particularly in urban areas. Heavy traffic leads to a higher probability of accidents as drivers make quick decisions and abrupt stops. Defensive driving is essential during these times. Paying close attention to lane markings and signals can help reduce the risk of collisions. California roads require drivers to remain alert and patient, especially when in traffic queues or near busy intersections where sudden lane changes are common. Changing lanes on California’s busy roads demands attentiveness and precision. Lane changes should be executed following the proper use of turn signals to indicate intentions to fellow drivers. Being aware of the flow of traffic and any gaps can prevent accidents. Intersections can be particularly challenging due to the convergence of vehicles from multiple directions. Knowing the rules and right-of-way protocols at intersections is vital for maintaining safety and preventing mishaps. Weather conditions in California can range from bright, sunny days to sudden storms that reduce visibility and create slick roads. Adverse weather can lead to issues such as hydroplaning , where tires lose contact with the road surface due to excess water. Drivers should reduce speed and increase the following distances in these conditions. Visibility can be compromised during rain or fog, which necessitates the use of headlights and careful monitoring of the surroundings. Understanding weather forecasts and preparing accordingly can enhance road safety during commutes. Safe driving in busy suburban areas requires attention to essential practices that enhance traffic safety. Key focus areas include maintaining safe distances, minimizing distractions, understanding interactions with bicyclists and pedestrians, and handling aggressive drivers through defensive strategies. Keeping a safe following distance is vital to avoid collisions and allow time to react to unexpected events. Drivers should ideally maintain a gap of at least three seconds from the vehicle ahead. In adverse weather conditions, increasing this distance is advised to account for reduced visibility and traction. Attention to changes in traffic flow is necessary. Stopping quickly or encountering sudden jams requires awareness and spacing between vehicles. This practice significantly reduces risks of rear-end accidents, especially in stop-and-go traffic common in suburban areas. Avoid distractions like mobile phones, food, or changing settings within the car. Using a hands-free system for calls can help minimize the risks. Modern technology, such as GPS, can assist with navigation but should be set before departure to prevent divided attention during driving. Staying alert means being constantly aware of the surroundings, including vehicle speeds, road conditions, and neighboring drivers. Ensuring sufficient rest before driving helps remain sharp and responsive. This vigilance is critical in preventing incidents that could stem from delayed reaction times. Drivers should carefully navigate areas frequented by bicyclists and pedestrians. California roads often feature dedicated lanes for bicyclists; respecting these spaces is essential. Moreover, always check blind spots before turning or changing lanes to avoid surprise encounters with cyclists. Pedestrians can appear unexpectedly, particularly near schools or shopping areas. Yielding to pedestrians at crosswalks and being prepared to stop is mandatory. Using turn signals well in advance alerts both bicyclists and pedestrians of intended maneuvers, reducing potential conflicts. Aggressive drivers can pose significant hazards on the road. Staying calm is crucial when faced with tailgating, speeding, or erratic lane changes by others. Avoid confrontation by not making eye contact or responding to provocations, which can escalate tensions. Defensive driving techniques are useful in maintaining safety around aggressive drivers. This includes anticipating sudden moves, maintaining constant speeds, and avoiding high-risk situations. Creating extra space between vehicles provides a buffer against hasty actions by aggressive drivers, ensuring a safer commute.
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.EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. (AP) — Indianapolis quarterback Anthony Richardson has been ruled out for the Colts' big game at the New York Giants on Sunday. Richardson missed practice on Thursday and Friday because of back and foot injuries. He was listed as questionable before on Saturday. Indianapolis (7-8) has a slim chance of making the playoffs. The Colts need to win out and get some help. Richardson's absence likely means Joe Flacco will start against New York. Flacco, a New Jersey native who turns 40 on Jan. 16, has passed for 1,167 yards and nine touchdowns in six games this season, including four starts. He also has thrown five interceptions. The 22-year-old Richardson was selected by Indianapolis with the No. 4 pick in the 2023 draft. He has passed for 1,814 yards and eight touchdowns with 12 interceptions this year. AP NFL:
The Bears look for an interim coach bump when they visit the struggling 49ersHouse rejects Democratic efforts to force release of Matt Gaetz ethics reportDailey leads No. 22 UCLA over 14th-ranked Gonzaga 65-62 in 1st college hoops game at Intuit Dome
Former President Jimmy Carter died Sunday after over a year in hospice care. The Georgia native passed in his hometown of Plains, Georgia, at the age of 100. President-elect Donald Trump shared a message on Truth Social in honor of Carter’s memory shortly following the news. “I just heard of the news about the passing of President Jimmy Carter. Those of us who have been fortunate to have served as President understand this is a very exclusive club, and only we can relate to the enormous responsibility of leading the Greatest Nation in History,” Trump wrote. “The challenges Jimmy faced as President came at a pivotal time for our country and he did everything in his power to improve the lives of all Americans. For that, we all owe him a debt of gratitude. “Melania and I are thinking warmly of the Carter Family and their loved ones during this difficult time. We urge everyone to keep them in their hearts and prayers.” Carter served a single term as president from 1977 to 1981, surprising the nation with an unlikely campaign to obtain the Democratic Party’s presidential nomination and a victory over incumbent Republican President Gerald Ford. Carter’s presidency featured a mass pardon for Americans who fled the Vietnam-era draft, as well as the Camp David Accords between Israel and Egypt. Carter presided over high inflation and a hostage crisis involving Iran’s Islamist regime in the final years of his tenure — problems that brought about his re-election defeat at the hands of Ronald Reagan. Some consider Carter’s legacy following his presidency as just as significant as his time in the White House. Carter personally negotiated an agreement with in 1994, a development that may have prevented the authoritarian regime from seeking a nuclear weapon. Carter’s series of post-presidency negotiations ultimately merited him a in 2002, with the prize’s administrators hailing his peacemaking legacy. The former president’s also worked to reduce the tolls of disease in poor countries. The Navy veteran and former governor of Georgia passed former to for the longest-living former president. Carter was a devout Christian who to his faith in Christ throughout his life. He Sunday school at his church, Maranatha Baptist Church, for decades. “It’s incompatible for any Christian not to believe in life after death,” Carter had said of a 2015 cancer diagnosis. We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism. Advertise with The Western Journal and reach millions of highly engaged readers, while supporting our work. .The Bears look for an interim coach bump when they visit the struggling 49ers
Agilyx ASA ( OTCMKTS:AGXXF – Get Free Report )’s stock price was up 8.5% during trading on Friday . The company traded as high as $3.20 and last traded at $3.20. Approximately 23,000 shares changed hands during mid-day trading, an increase of 123% from the average daily volume of 10,313 shares. The stock had previously closed at $2.95. Agilyx ASA Stock Up 8.5 % The stock has a 50 day simple moving average of $3.10 and a 200-day simple moving average of $2.95. Agilyx ASA Company Profile ( Get Free Report ) Agilyx ASA, a technology company, engages in the chemically recycling of difficult-to-recycle post-use plastic streams. The company operates through two segments, Agilyx and Cyclyx. Its conversion technology utilizes pyrolysis without a catalyst and converts mixed waste plastic to naphtha and fuels, as well as depolymerizes plastics, which include polystyrene and PMMA back into virgin-quality products. Featured Articles Receive News & Ratings for Agilyx ASA Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Agilyx ASA and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter .
DALLAS , Dec. 5, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Wingstop Inc. (NASDAQ: WING) today announced that its board of directors approved the purchase of up to an additional $500 million of its outstanding shares of common stock under its existing share repurchase program, effective immediately. This repurchase program follows the substantial completion of purchases of common stock under the inaugural $250 million repurchase authorization from August 2023 . With this additional repurchase authorization, the Company anticipates executing a $250 million accelerated share repurchase ("ASR") program that will commence in the fourth quarter of 2024.Top 5 songs of 2024: From Charli XCX to Kendrick Lamar, here’s our take on the top tunes of the year
Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. More info The new biopic about Robbie Williams, Better Man, has caused quite a stir on social media, particularly among American audiences who claim they have "no idea who he is". The 50 year old former Take That star's film, which sees him portrayed as a CGI chimpanzee and narrated by the singer himself, has been well-received by critics. However, it has left some viewers puzzled as to why it was made in the first place. The film depicts Robbie's rise to fame with Take That and his subsequent struggles with personal demons. As clips from the film began circulating on social media, a debate ensued between British fans defending Robbie's status in the pop world and American sceptics. One post that sparked much discussion read: "What the hell is up with this 'Robbie Williams' monkey CGI movie Nobody in America has a CLUE who that is.... And like me probably got excited for Robin Williams then was like oh.... Why're they advertising like this is a big deal." Robbie has certainly stirred up a mix of bewilderment and admiration on social media with his latest biopic move. Some are scratching their heads, with one person quipping: "Who is Robbie Williams and why does he have a biopic where he is a cartoon monkey?" Another echoed the confusion, asking: "Who tf is Robbie Williams? Why are people mad that Americans are not interested in whatever movie he's associated with?" But British fans are quick to defend their beloved pop icon. One fan expressed shock at the American ignorance: "Just recently discovered that Americans have no idea who Robbie Williams is and that's absolutely blown my mind because how," reports the Mirror . Another clapped back with a list of Robbie's impressive achievements: "375,000 people over 3 nights went to knebworth just to watch Robbie Williams, he broke out in Europe, Asia, South America, his tours have grossed over $600 million. But Americans make fun of him and question his popularity because he wasn't as big in North America. Get a grip." The creative choice behind Robbie's animated portrayal was explained by director Michael Gracey to BBC: "I wanted to come at this with a different lens. Quite often, Rob will say, 'I'm just like a performing monkey' or 'I'm up the back like a performing monkey'. It just sparked this idea of, we've got this chance to tell this story, not from the perspective of how we see Rob, but how he sees himself. And so I pitched the idea to Rob. I said, 'You know, if you were to be an animal, how would you see yourself?'" Robbie initially told Michael that he saw himself as a lion but later changed his mind to a monkey. The original plan was for Robbie to portray the chimp on-screen himself.The Growing Importance of Corporate Law Firms in India India’s economic growth has created an unprecedented demand for sophisticated legal services. Corporate law firms play a critical role in ensuring businesses comply with regulations, manage risks, and navigate complex transactions. These firms offer services ranging from mergers and acquisitions to dispute resolution, catering to domestic and international clients. Here is a list of the top 10 best corporate law firms in India in 2025, known for their legal expertise and exceptional client service. 1. AZB & Partners AZB & Partners is a heavyweight in India’s corporate law landscape, with a strong presence in Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore. Known for its expertise in mergers and acquisitions, private equity, and banking laws, the firm has consistently ranked among the best. Key Highlights : Advises Fortune 500 companies and leading Indian corporations. Expertise in cross-border transactions and regulatory compliance. Awarded “Law Firm of the Year” multiple times. 2. Shardul Amarchand Mangaldas & Co. Shardul Amarchand Mangaldas & Co. is one of the oldest and most prestigious corporate law firms in India. With a robust team of over 600 lawyers, the firm excels in capital markets, real estate, and dispute resolution. Why It Stands Out : Advises on high-stakes transactions for multinational corporations. Strong dispute resolution practice. Deep expertise in intellectual property law. 3. Cyril Amarchand Mangaldas After its split from Shardul Amarchand, Cyril Amarchand Mangaldas has emerged as a top-tier corporate law firm. The firm is well-regarded for its focus on innovation and client-centric legal solutions. Services Offered : Mergers and acquisitions. Corporate governance advisory. Banking and finance law. Cyril Amarchand Mangaldas has played a pivotal role in shaping corporate law practices in India. 4. Khaitan & Co. Khaitan & Co. is a powerhouse in corporate and commercial law. Its team of over 750 professionals offers comprehensive legal services, making it a go-to firm for complex legal matters. Key Specializations : Taxation and regulatory compliance. Real estate and infrastructure projects. Insolvency and bankruptcy advisory. 5. Trilegal Trilegal has grown exponentially in the past decade to establish itself as one of the top corporate law firms in India. With a focus on innovation, the firm is known for its solution-driven approach to complex legal challenges. Key Features : Strong presence in private equity and venture capital deals. Expertise in employment and labor laws. Consistently ranked among India’s best law firms. 6. Luthra and Luthra Law Offices India Renowned for its expertise in regulatory frameworks, Luthra and Luthra offers unmatched services in corporate restructuring and dispute resolution. Its innovative solutions cater to a diverse range of industries. What Sets It Apart : Focus on infrastructure and energy sectors. Advisory services for startups and SMEs. Recognized for excellence in arbitration. 7. J. Sagar Associates (JSA) JSA is synonymous with trust and reliability in the corporate law sector. With offices in key cities, the firm specializes in providing tailored legal solutions for its clients. Core Services : Corporate advisory. Litigation and arbitration. Intellectual property rights. 8. Economic Laws Practice (ELP) ELP is a full-service law firm with expertise in corporate and commercial law. It is widely respected for its strong focus on tax law and international trade. Key Areas of Expertise : Mergers and acquisitions. Tax advisory and litigation. Competition law. 9. Nishith Desai Associates Nishith Desai Associates stands out for its cutting-edge work in technology law, private equity, and intellectual property. The firm is known for its forward-thinking and research-based approach. Top Features : Expertise in emerging sectors like fintech and blockchain. Strong focus on legal research and innovation. Global recognition for its legal acumen. 10. Phoenix Legal Phoenix Legal is a boutique law firm that has quickly risen to prominence in corporate law. It offers personalized services and pragmatic solutions to its clients. Key Strengths : Expertise in energy, shipping, and aviation sectors. Strong focus on client relationships. Excellent track record in dispute resolution. Why These Corporate Law Firms Stand Out These corporate law firms have earned their reputation through consistent performance, deep legal expertise, and a client-first approach. They cater to diverse industries, including technology, real estate, banking, and infrastructure, ensuring businesses receive top-notch legal counsel. Key Factors Behind Their Success : Trends Shaping Corporate Law in India Technology Adoption : Automation and AI are transforming legal research and compliance. Focus on Sustainability : Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) laws are gaining traction. Globalization : Increasing cross-border transactions require firms to adapt to global standards. Specialization : Firms are developing niche practices in areas like fintech, cryptocurrency, and data privacy. Conclusion The top 10 best corporate law firms in India for 2025 represent the pinnacle of legal expertise and client satisfaction. Whether you’re a multinational corporation or a startup, these corporate law firms provide unparalleled services tailored to your needs. With a focus on innovation, professionalism, and global outlook, they are shaping the future of corporate law in India.
The Onion's bid for Alex Jones' Infowars hangs in the balance as judge orders new hearingA butterfly collector in Africa with more than 4.2 million seeks to share them for the futureAsk Lisi: Wild, distasteful stories on social media a reason to log off
How to Watch Top 25 Women’s College Basketball Games – Monday, December 30 Published 8:28 pm Sunday, December 29, 2024 By Data Skrive The Alcorn State Braves and the Ole Miss Rebels hit the court for the only game on the college basketball schedule on Monday that feature a ranked team. Watch women’s college basketball, other live sports and more on Fubo. What is Fubo? Fubo is a streaming service that gives you access to your favorite live sports and shows on demand. Use our link to sign up. Today’s Top 25 Games Catch tons of live women’s college basketball , plus original programming, with ESPN+ or the Disney Bundle.
As we reflect on a rollercoaster year for Scottish businesses, there are grounds for optimism in 2025. Many of our 12,000 members have faced tough challenges, from rising costs to skills shortages and falling consumer demand. However, what has impressed me most is their incredible resilience in the face of adversity. Businesses have always found inspiration in adversity, seizing opportunities and demonstrating the entrepreneurial spirit and resolve that has been the bedrock of Scotland’s many success stories over the years. Difficult challenges remain, with both the recent UK and Scottish budgets impacting business confidence as we move into 2025. Measures to support growth and investment are positive but there are still major concerns about the impact of taxation, rates relief, and public spending. We need greater targeted support and policy clarity. This year Scotland’s economy demonstrated remarkable tenacity, with steady gross domestic product (GDP) growth, driven mainly by renewable energy, technology, life sciences, and tourism. And business confidence has steadily recovered, despite global market volatility and inflationary pressures. Looking ahead to 2025, I believe the enduring spirit of Scottish entrepreneurship will ensure we are well-placed to seize opportunities, particularly across the digital economy where Scotland’s thriving tech ecosystem is positioning the nation as a hub for fintech, artificial intelligence, and data-driven innovation. Digital adoption is no longer a “nice to have” but a commercial necessity and, with strategic government support to help businesses embrace digitalisation, we can improve our productivity and competitiveness. In international trade, Scotland’s exporters have found new routes to global markets, despite the lasting impact of Brexit. Demand for Scottish goods, from whisky to sustainable textiles, remains strong. Read more 'Sense of decay' in city centre amid 'frustration', leader warns 'Can Scottish Government support Glasgow or stop route development altogether?' Global economic conditions, particularly in the eurozone and key export markets, will continue to have a direct impact on Scottish exports in 2025 and we welcome both the Scottish and UK governments’ continued support in helping promote overseas trade. The USA is Scotland's top international export destination and our largest inward investor. With its vast consumer base and strong demand for quality products, Scotland’s whisky, seafood, textiles, and tech solutions are well-positioned to thrive in 2025. However, changing trade policies and threats of tariffs on specific Scottish exports under a new President Trump administration will create unpredictability and Scotland’s businesses will need government on their side to negotiate competitive trade terms and minimise trade barriers. Read more Ian McConnell: Time to face up to the Brexit consequences Ian McConnell: This 'disaster' surely makes grim reading for an open-minded Brexiter Huge opportunities lie in the transition to a net-zero economy and Scotland’s position as a global leader in renewable energy offers a substantial competitive advantage, if leveraged effectively. Our wealth of natural resources - offshore wind, hydrogen, and tidal energy - gives us a transformative edge. With the right investment climate, Scotland can be a a global leader in green technologies, attracting international investment and creating thousands of high-quality jobs. However, none of these opportunities will be realised without a concerted effort from government and business: 2025 must be a year of bold leadership and policy alignment. At the start of 2024, inflation was our biggest cause for concern but that began to stabilise in the second half of the year and, while energy prices and supply-chain issues presented significant obstacles, Scotland’s businesses responded with agility. I have been encouraged by how quickly our members adapted. That resilience and entrepreneurial creativity has shone through. Even staffing and skills issues have seen signs of improvement. Unemployment rates remained low, and businesses continued to invest in upskilling and retraining the workforce to close the skills gap. Young people in Scotland are benefitting from apprenticeships and skills development programmes but, to remain competitive on a global stage, we need to continue to upskill our future workforce. The Scottish Government must deliver a long-overdue review of the apprenticeship levy, which is clearly not fit for purpose. Labour shortages obstacles remain in critical sectors such as construction, hospitality, and manufacturing, and tackling this requires collaboration between educational institutions, industry and government to align skills provision with market needs. Fostering an entrepreneurial culture across Scotland’s educational system, from primary schools to universities, is crucial to embedding innovative thinking and a business mindset. I would love to see support networks, accelerators, and mentorship programmes be accessible to all - particularly women, young people, and under-represented groups. The cost of doing business remains a significant concern for 2025. Inflationary pressures may not fully ease and uncertainty over interest rates could influence business investment. We need targeted support measures to ease the pressures of rising energy bills, higher raw material costs and burdensome regulations. Despite some positive changes in the Scottish Budget, sustained rates relief continues to be a pressing issue for the hospitality and leisure sector. To that end, Scottish Chambers of Commerce (SCC) has joined forces with the Scottish Passenger Agents’ Association to raise these concerns directly to the Deputy First Minister. Without parity of support, the risk of closures and job losses could escalate, particularly for smaller operators facing reduced footfall and higher operating costs. As we celebrate the festive period and many of those businesses enjoy a busier time, it is only masking the difficulties they face come the quiet months after the New Year. Scotland’s economy stands at a pivotal moment. Our performance in 2024 reflects a story of resilience, adaptability, and unyielding determination. If we embrace a growth mindset, nurture entrepreneurial spirit, and lead with purpose, Scotland can emerge stronger and greener. The SCC network is the leading voice of business in Scotland. We believe in the economic opportunities that lie ahead for our businesses and our country and we would urge government to recognise, encourage and support that ambition. Businesses need clarity and consistency in regulation and a positive plan for investment and growth that will create the confidence and financial foundations for a thriving economy. It’s about taking the lessons of 2024 and leading in 2025, where the world recognises Scotland as a place where quality and innovation are the cornerstones of every product and service, and entrepreneurship is rewarded and celebrated. There have been so many remarkable business achievements this year and there is every reason for optimism that we will continue to advance Scotland’s position on the world stage in 2025. Liz Cameron is chief executive of Scottish Chambers of CommerceAHF Honors and Remembers Jimmy Carter as Human Rights ChampionThe Kimball High girls basketball team is off to a strong start to their winter campaign after improving to 2-0 on the year with a 66-52 win over Liberty Monday night. The Jaguars extended their early season win streak to two games by dominating the visiting Lions over three quarters and seeing out the game with relative comfort in the fourth. The Jags’ red-hot offense was paced by junior Emma Coronado who poured in 27 points – including six three pointers – to go along with three rebounds, two assists, two steals, and a pair of blocks. Kimball scored 20+ points in the first and third quarter and took a commanding 58-36 advantage into the final frame. Senior Gabrielle Robinson and freshman Maddie Floyd added 10 points each for the hosts. Floyd also had seven rebounds and seven blocks. Junior Anaiya Garcia (7) and freshman Sienna Arendt (7) combined for 14 points. The visitors were led by a standout performance from Shyanne Smith with 30 points. On Wednesday night, the Jags jumped to 3-0 with a resounding 67-27 win over Manteca, also at home. Kimball kept their foot on the gas all the way through on both ends and even kept the Buffaloes scoreless in the second quarter as they took a 34-5 lead into the break. A 26-point third frame from the hosts all but put the game away. The Jags shared the wealth offensively with Robinson leading the team with 12 points on a 5-5 shooting night. Sophomore Naomi Gee had a breakout performance with 11 points. Coronado added 8 points and four assists. Mtn. House 45, Amador Valley 41 The Mustangs responded expertly to starting their season 0-3 with their road victory over the Dons Tuesday night being their second straight. Mountain House took out Turlock in a 52-24 blowout last week in their first win behind a combined 27 points from senior Jariah Indalecio (12) and senior Erica Foster (15). The ‘Stangs then traveled to Pleasanton in the Bay Area where they held off their hosts down the stretch to improve to 2-3. Millennium 50, Gustine 35 The Falcons have started their winter campaign as they mean to go on as their second solid offensive performance in as many games saw them improve to 2-0 on the road Monday night. Millennium outscored their hosts behind a monster double-double from junior Sarah Digiallonardo who had 21 points and 20 rebounds. Digiallonardo was an efficient 9-14 from the floor. The visitors’ offense was boosted by nice outings from freshman duo Gianna Negrete and Sophia Negron. Negrete stuffed the stat sheet with 12 points, five boards, six steals, and four blocks. Negron added 8 points and eight rebounds. Tokay 38, West 36 The Wolf Pack lost their third straight game to drop to 1-4 in the early season when they fell to the Tigers at home Tuesday night. West’s only win thus far came during the season opening tournament game against Ben Holt College Prep Academy where the Pack won 40-24 on Nov. 26 behind 17 points from sophomore Kaliyah Byrd. Contact Arion Armeniakos at aarmeniakos@tracypress.com , or call 209-830-4229.
Taylor Fritz shared on social media the new hate messages he received at the start of the season. The world No. 4 is competing in the United Cup , where he made his debut with a loss to Felix Auger-Aliassime , and just hours later, he shared the hate messages he received on social media. This is not a new issue for players on both the ATP and WTA tours. With the rise of betting and the ability for fans to send messages directly to players on social media, many have spoken out about this controversial topic, with some even receiving threats. Fritz shares hate messages on social media Players like Caroline Garcia , Iga Swiatek , and Coco Gauff have previously reported receiving constant hate messages on social media. This time, it was the current No. 1 American, Taylor Fritz, who shared some of the messages he received shortly after a match. “New season of tennis has officially started. We’re so back ” he posted on X (formerly Twitter) alongside a screenshot of the messages he received on Instagram. “Someone will kill you soon,” “You are a dog sh*t,” and “I hope you get a sudden heart attack” were some of the messages visible in the screenshot, which Fritz received minutes after his loss to Felix Auger-Aliassime (6-4, 5-7, 3-6). Despite the loss, Team USA won their tie against Canada. In the first match, Coco Gauff defeated 2021 US Open runner-up Leylah Fernandez (6-3, 6-2), paving the way for Fritz’s match, where he was defeated. They then played a deciding mixed doubles match (with the same singles participants), and the duo of Gauff and Fritz secured the win for the Americans (7-6, 7-5). Their next challenge will be against Croatia on December 31. Fritz will face the world No. 10, while later, world No. 3 Coco Gauff will challenge Paris 2024 silver medalist Donna Vekic , who had previously defeated Gauff in the third round of the Olympic Games, crushing Gauff’s hopes of winning a medal. New season of tennis has officially started. We’re so back pic.twitter.com/ia80fSYbM0 This article first appeared on TennisUpToDate.com and was syndicated with permission.By Dan Scifo Associated Press PITTSBURGH — Sidney Crosby broke Mario Lemieux’s Pittsburgh franchise career record for assists on Michael Bunting’s power-play goal and the Penguins beat the New York Islanders 3-2 on Sunday night. Crosby has 1,034 assists, good for 12th in NHL history. Only three players — Ray Bourque, Wayne Gretzky and Steve Yzerman — have more assists with a single team. The 37-year-old Crosby has played 1,310-regular-season games. Lemieux played 915. Philip Tomasino added the deciding power-play goal in the third for Pittsburgh, which has 14 goals with the man advantage in its last 13 games. Anthony Beauvillier also scored to help the Penguins win for the seventh time in their last eight home games. Alex Nedeljkovic made 29 saves in his first start since Dec. 17. Kris Letang missed the game because of a lower-body injury, and defenseman Nathan Clurman made his NHL debut. Anders Lee scored two third-period goals for the Islanders, who fell behind 3-0 before their rally fell short. Marcus Hogberg stopped 38 shots during his first start since April 28, 2021. Takeaways Islanders: Have lost five of their last eight games after splitting the back-to-back, home-and-home series with Pittsburgh. Penguins: Rebounded from a 6-3 road loss against the Islanders 24 hours ago. Pittsburgh has won 10 of 15 after losing eight of its previous 10 games. Key moment Crosby was behind the net when he sent a backhand feed to Bunting, who buried his seventh power-play goal behind Hogberg at 1:36 of the second period, giving the Penguins a 2-0 lead. Up next Both teams play again Tuesday. Pittsburgh visits Detroit, while the Islanders begin a home-and-home series at Toronto.
MARPAI ANNOUNCES PRICING OF $700,000 PRIVATE PLACEMENTDec. 29—LOS ANGELES — Chatting with the small Flyers media contingent in Anaheim, Calif., on Friday after the team returned to action with a spirited practice, John Tortorella spoke like a proud papa about Noah Cates. "You never know, right?" he said. "You just never know when it clicks in on players, and I'm proud of him. Very quiet kid and out of the lineup at the beginning of the year, he takes it and he just gets himself ready, and I think he has established himself as a really good player offensively and defensively for us right now." Cates tallied five goals and nine points in 16 games at the end of the 2021-22 season after ending his collegiate career at the University of Minnesota-Duluth. He had 38 points (13 goals, 25 assists) in 82 games during Tortorella's first season with the Flyers when he was primarily moved from wing to center. But last season, he struggled to find his game and had just 18 points (six goals, 12 assists) in 59 games while missing 22 with a broken foot suffered Nov. 25 against the New York Islanders. This season, Cates was a healthy scratch for four of the Flyers' first five games with Jett Luchanko making his NHL debut. He started slowly with one assist in his first 12 games but has taken off since being united with Bobby Brink and Tyson Foerster on — coincidentally — Nov. 25 against the Vegas Golden Knights. The trio has become the Flyers' top line in terms of reliability, puck possession, puck support, energy, and, of course, production. According to Money Puck, the three players lead the Flyers' forwards in puck possession across the last 10 games at five-on-five with Cates (59.9%) atop the list. Foerster (58.9%) and Brink (58.6%) are not far behind. "We're just doing the right things and playing hockey the right way and just supporting each other," Cates said after he scored for the fifth straight game in a 3-1 win against Anaheim on Saturday. "Kind of the message that Torts has kind of given us, being close and supporting each other because there are breakdowns, but if you have a guy close for support, you can limit the breakdowns and teams countering on us. So I think the biggest thing is staying close, and every line should do that and can do that, and I think we're a good example of it." The confidence they are showing is evident. In the 15 games they have skated together, they have a combined 25 points, with Foerster leading the way with 10. But Cates is clearly the driver on that line. He is the veteran among the trio at 25, and his checking and pressure game and puck support have given Tortorella the confidence to move him to the second power-play unit, too. "He's winning faceoffs. He has played well for a while now. His stick work, his strength on the puck, his utility for me, using him at the end of games, having two centers. Now he's on the power play. He deserves to be on the power play," Tortorella said. "And quite honestly, it's a lesson for all the lines, as far as how those three are always together, the support of it." Let's break down the support and why it works, focusing on Cates' five-goal streak. Better Together As Jack Johnson sang, "It's always better when we're together." On the goal Saturday afternoon in Anaheim, Brink used his speed and legs to take the puck down behind the net before feeding Cates in the slot. Part of what worked well on this goal was Brink faking a move to the net that pulled Anaheim goalie Lukáš Dostál out of position but if you look at the screenshot from the NBCSP telecast, the Flyers have four guys from the hash marks in — Cam York was up high — and have the five Ducks pinned low and all watching Brink. Foerster was right there with Cates for support and Travis Sanheim is at the right post as an option, too. Last Man Standing Willie Nelson may have been on to something when he sang: "I don't wanna be the last man standin', or wait a minute maybe I do?" Cates wasn't the last man standing technically for his goal against the Pittsburgh Penguins a week ago, but he was the final forward entering the zone. Because he was the trailer, no one was paying much attention to him as Brink, and, especially Foerster, were cutting the ice in half. Cates, who could have gone farther to the right, made the right play and didn't go to the open ice. If he had, it would have not only made for a harder pass distance-wise but the feed from Brink would have had a lower probability of getting through more sticks and bodies. "They're just together," Tortorella said after the game against Pittsburgh. "They support the puck well. They spend a lot of time in the offensive zone because they're around it, they're not spread out. I think they're checking very well. It's been probably one of our better lines for quite a while here now." Silver screen On his game-tying goal against the Columbus Blue Jackets last Saturday, Cates was in front of the net and able to pounce on the rebound. A defensive-minded center — Travis Konecny told The Inquirer last year "He's like the younger [Sean Couturier]" — Cates can be the net-front presence because his linemates are supporting the puck and being in positions where they can get back defensively if needed. At 6-foot-2, Cates was a big body in front of the 6-3 Columbus goalie Elvis Merzļikins and outmuscled defenseman Zach Werenski for the marker. He knows how to spell checking Cates was wide open down the slot and able to receive the pass from Brink because of the play the 5-8 forward made along the boards. Brink turned on the jets and outmuscled 6-foot defenseman Mikey Anderson to retrieve the puck. It was a play Brink could not pull off last year — as Tortorella said earlier in December, Brink "didn't know how to spell 'checking' last year" — but has played hard on the puck this year and has been using his body to create time, space and goals. Triangle man As the band They Might Be Giants know, "Triangle wins." One of the most basic offensive zone strategies in hockey is having the forwards create a triangle. It is not only about puck support and having a high man but creates a bit of turmoil for the team defending. Just before the screenshot below of Cates' goal against the Detroit Red Wings, the Flyers trio had a triangle in the left corner as they forechecked to recover the puck. Cates went from the corner to the front after they got it back and is once again screening the goalie — you can see in the screen shot the 6-1 Alex Lyon is trying to look around him — and the Flyers maintained the triangle. The shot by Foerster ended up going in off the body of Cates and in. Breakaways With Sam Ersson in net Saturday against the Ducks, the expectation is that Aleksei Kolosov will start Sunday against the Kings (9 p.m., NBCSP). (c)2024 The Philadelphia Inquirer Visit The Philadelphia Inquirer at www.inquirer.com Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.Five hundred Small and Medium Scale Entrepreneurs (SMEs) from the South East have been empowered by President Tinubu’s support group, Renewed Hope Agenda. The businessmen and women got cash ranging from N200,000 and N50,000 respectively while another twenty got grinding and sowing machines at the event held in Owerri, on Friday. The National Coordinator of the group, Belusochukwu Enwere, while addressing the beneficiaries, said that the program aimed to uplift enterprising Nigerians by supporting their skills and businesses to drive economic growth. Enwere, who is also the National President of the Youth Wing of Christian Association of Nigeria (YOWICAN), said “The program seeks to empower thousands of youths and women across the South East region. “During this first phase of the empowerment program, ₦200,000 would be given to one hundred business men and women each. Another ₦100,000 each would be given to 200 SMEs, ₦50,000 each to five hundred people while ₦20,000 each would be given to five hundred indigent families. “In addition to the financial aid, skilled individuals were provided with tools such as sewing machines, grinding machines, and other equipment to support their businesses. Beneficiaries also received bags of rice as Christmas hampers.” Enwere emphasised that the program aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda’s objective of connecting citizens to government policies and ensuring they benefit from the dividends of democracy. He praised Tinubu for implementing reforms, such as local government autonomy, which he said would enhance grassroots development, and tax reforms aimed at boosting businesses and reducing excessive taxation. The event also featured a keynote address by Professor Frank Aneto from the Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO). Speaking on the topic, “Empowering South East Nigeria for Economic Emancipation and Prosperity,” he underscored the importance of youth empowerment and political emancipation in unlocking the region’s economic potential.