Former Nebraska receiver Malachi Coleman, who redshirted this season after a fruitful freshman campaign, announced his transfer to Minnesota on Tuesday. The 6-foot-4, 190-pound Coleman, a top-100 recruit out of Lincoln East High School, caught eight passes for 139 yards and one touchdown as a true freshman. He sustained an injury that kept him out of spring camp, however, and, after switching jersey numbers from 15 to 80 to accommodate quarterback Dylan Raiola, Coleman appeared in just one game, vs. Rutgers, in 2024. NU also recruited transfers Jahmal Banks and Isaiah Neyor, who had similar size and skillsets, to play over Coleman at his position. Coleman redshirted and will have three seasons of eligibility left as he plays for the Gophers, who visits Oct. 18. Subscribe for the best Husker news & commentary Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox!After SoundHound AI’s SOUN breakthrough in 2024, Benzinga caught up with CEO Keyvan Mohajer to discuss the company’s success, artificial intelligence and plans for the future. Benzinga: SoundHound is closing the year in the headlines after being a relatively overlooked company at the beginning of the year. What was the key moment when the market started giving you credit for all the hard work? Mohajer: What I constantly tell my team is that we have to do a thousand things right. A subset of those will eventually bring the attention that we deserve, but when that moment comes, everything we've done right up until then matters. The key moment I'd highlight is the shift among our customers and the industry as a whole. For most businesses now, AI adoption is no longer an exploration within their innovation budgets — it's a mandate. In that context, SoundHound is in a prime position. Our ability to combine proprietary voice AI technology with sophisticated large language models has allowed us to deliver immense value. In addition, our three-pillar business strategy gives us a unique advantage, enabling us to create a flywheel effect and shape the voice commerce ecosystem of the future. Benzinga: You have a "three pillars of revenue" business model. After a year of revenue growth, can you summarize how these pillars synchronize and where the next growth could come from? Mohajer: Our pillar one revenue comes from building AI voice assistants for products, like vehicles, TVs, and smart devices, and our pillar two revenue comes from creating voice AI service agents that businesses can deploy with their customers and employees. While these two pillars can succeed independently, we do see a big opportunity to bring them together to create a voice AI ecosystem in a way that generates new revenue streams for device manufacturers, and new leads for customer-centered businesses. This will become our third pillar. To be more specific, users already speak to their car's AI Assistant, which we power, and they already order food by speaking to the AI agent of a restaurant that we also power. With pillar three, you don't need to go to the drive-through and wait in line. You can speak to your car and place your order in advance. Your car's AI agent will speak to the restaurant's AI agent to get your task done. At CES , SoundHound will demonstrate this concept, called the "voice commerce ecosystem," which will ultimately allow people to seamlessly conduct transactions — from ordering food to making appointments or booking tickets — via AI agents directly from cars or TVs just by speaking naturally. We see AI agents as a huge opportunity, with networks of them communicating with each other to deliver information, process transactions, and improve the lives of both consumers and human employees. Benzinga: In 2024, you fortified the company’s portfolio with the acquisitions of Amelia and Allset . What challenges have you encountered in those efforts? Mohajer: We're extremely fortunate to find businesses that had incredible synergies with what we were already doing. Each has helped us expand our reach into new and exciting markets. Integrating new teams and company cultures, realizing cost and revenue synergies, and bringing the best out of each other is a challenge we don't take lightly. But for the most part, we are very pleased with our acquisitions. We are now in an impressive range of vertical industries, including highly regulated spaces like health care and financial services, where our technology is deployed with seven of the top 10 global institutions. Benzinga: Your market cap skyrocketed, but so did your market cap to net cash ratio. Meanwhile, your critics often discuss cash burn and stock-based compensation. What are your expectations for the firm’s finances in 2025? Mohajer: We have a strong cash position and constantly calibrate a healthy balance of investing in growth and pursuing profitability. In the third quarter, we reported a revenue increase of 89% year-over-year, and we expect this year's revenue will be in the range of $82-85 million. Next year is looking like $155-$175 million in revenue, and we've also predicted that we'll be adjusted EBITDA positive by the end of next year. Benzinga: Considering your success with Stellantis STLA , the automotive industry seems like a natural home for SoundHound’s technology. With autonomous vehicles on the horizon and companies like Waymo expanding domestically, is the arrival of your technology into these segments inevitable? Mohajer: We're proud of the progress we've made with automotive. In addition to rolling out the most sophisticated in-vehicle voice assistant on the market across a broad range of Stellantis brands, we also work with leading global automakers like Hyundai and Kia , and we're making gains in the growing EV space, with four exciting brands signed up to use our conversational AI. In terms of our technology, we see endless opportunities within automotive — including deploying our technology as part of the move to autonomous vehicles. Benzinga: At a $7.5 billion in market cap, SoundHound is in an excellent position to continue rising in 2025. What could we expect in terms of organic growth vs. acquisitions? Mohajer: We have been experiencing organic growth exceeding 50% for the last several years, driven by increasing commercial traction of our solutions. With the immense opportunities created by generative AI and the accelerating pace of our end markets, we expanded our approach this year to include M&A. This shift has contributed to our momentum, reflected in our last quarter's growth rate of 89%. We believe programmatic M&A is important, particularly in rapidly transforming industries. That said, we will continue to invest organically across all pillars of our business because the breakthrough opportunities are tremendous. When acquisition opportunities arise that (1) align with and amplify our strategy, (2) help us move from point A to point B faster or more efficiently, (3) can be effectively operationalized, and (4) come at an attractive price, we won't hesitate to take action. Benzinga: Is there anything else you want to tell our readers? Mohajer: We're lucky to have had some great champions, investors, partners and customers out there who have really believed in SoundHound AI and our vision. Today, our technology powers hundreds of global enterprise brands, thousands of restaurant and retail locations, and millions of vehicles and devices — and we're just getting started. SOUN Price Watch: Shares of SoundHound AI were trading 13.2% higher at $21.34 ahead of the close Friday. The stock is up 882% year-to-date. Read Next: Here’s What The Latest Congressional AI Report Could Mean For Big Tech Photo: Shutterstock © 2024 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.
Domestic violence victims in W.Va. can now seek a protective order without having to face their attackerThe College Football Playoff committee took SMU's wins over Alabama's strength of schedule, picking the Mustangs for the final at-large spot Sunday after a furious public debate and days of lobbying and arguing over which teams should make the 12-team field. SMU (11-2) showed it could compete against a traditional power, losing to Clemson 34-31 on a 56-yard field goal on the final play of the ACC championship game. The late-game rally probably did the trick. “I just think America saw SMU belongs," Mustangs coach Rhett Lashlee told ESPN on Sunday after his team got in. "We’re a team that has a chance to compete for this championship. And to some degree, I think we’re a little bit America’s team after last night.” The Mustangs, seeded 11th, will visit No. 6 seed Penn State in the first round. The bracket was expanded from four teams this season, but that didn’t help Alabama or save the committee from controversy that began over the past two weeks as the CFP rankings — and “data points” — were parsed and criticized. The squabbling wasn't limited to who should be in the field but also who should get consideration for first-round byes. The Crimson Tide (9-3) had quality wins against Georgia and South Carolina in their first season under coach Kalen DeBoer. Losses at Vanderbilt, Tennessee and Oklahoma proved costly. The 24-3 loss to Oklahoma was too much to overcome. The Sooners, who finished 6-6, rushed for 250 yards against the Crimson Tide and dominated despite having several key injuries. Alabama athletic director Greg Byrne stated the case for the Crimson Tide several hours before the announcement. So did former Alabama coach Nick Saban. “Strength of schedule matters,” Byrne posted on social media. “Not all schedules and conferences are created equal. Six of our eight wins are against bowl eligible teams and have come against some of the top teams in the sec, including sec champion Georgia.” Several teams with strong seasons were left out besides the Crimson Tide, including Miami (two losses), South Carolina and Mississippi (three losses each). Committee chairman Warde Manuel explained that strength of schedule was valued — a comment that didn’t sit well with Ole Miss coach Lane Kiffin. “Is this fake news??? he didn’t actually really say that ....” Kiffin wrote on a social media post, tagging both the Alabama and SMU football accounts. SMU actually increased its strength of schedule from the previous season by switching from the American Athletic Conference to the ACC. The Mustangs’ only regular-season loss this year was a non-conference game at home to 10-win BYU in the third game of the season . The Mustangs won nine straight before the loss to Clemson. That didn't make the waiting easier on Sunday. SMU was the last qualifier announced. “Until we saw SMU up there, you know, you’re just hanging, hanging on the edge,” Lashlee said. There was more controversy. Big 12 Commissioner Brett Yormark said he didn't believe any Group of Five team should get the bye over a Power Four champion, citing strength of schedule. Mountain West Commissioner Gloria Nevarez pushed back hours ahead of the bracket announcement. “Participation in the College Football Playoff isn’t about entitlement,” she wrote on social media. “It should not be contingent upon a conference patch or the logo on the helmet ... Boise State’s body of work this season, including an 11-game win streak, has earned it one of the top four seeds ahead of the Big 12 champion.” In the end, Boise State of the Mountain West got the No. 3 seed ahead of Big 12 champion Arizona State, which was seeded fourth. But both got first-round byes. Get poll alerts and updates on the AP Top 25 throughout the season. Sign up here . AP college football: https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-football-poll and https://apnews.com/hub/college-football
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Mincey scores 27, UMass-Lowell knocks off UMass 96-83None
Amgen Logo. (PRNewsFoto/Amgen) (PRNewsFoto/) Phase 3 Study Results Demonstrated Three Year, Disease-Free Survival of 96% THOUSAND OAKS, Calif. , Dec. 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Amgen (NASDAQ:AMGN) today announced new data demonstrating that adding BLINCYTO ® (blinatumomab) to chemotherapy significantly improves disease-free survival (DFS) in newly diagnosed pediatric patients with National Cancer Institute (NCI) standard risk (SR) B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL) of average or higher risk of relapse. The data are from a Phase 3 study (AALL1731) conducted by the Children's Oncology Group. The results were simultaneously published in the New England Journal of Medicine and will be presented during the plenary session on Sunday, Dec. 8 , at 2 p.m. PT at the 66 th American Society of Hematology (ASH) Annual Meeting & Exposition in San Diego . "Over the last decade, BLINCYTO has reshaped the treatment landscape for B-ALL, offering a critical lifeline for thousands of adult and pediatric patients," said Jay Bradner , M.D., executive vice president of Research and Development and chief scientific officer at Amgen. "These powerful new data leave us little doubt about the profound impact of this medicine for a large number of children affected by this disease. We are grateful to the Children's Oncology Group, along with the patients, families and clinical teams, for their dedication and partnership in advancing this critical study to improve the lives of children with cancer." Based on the results of the first pre-specified interim analysis for efficacy, the study met its primary endpoint of DFS and study randomization was terminated early based on the recommendation from the data and safety monitoring committee due to the benefit observed in the BLINCYTO arm compared to the chemotherapy-only arm. Overall, the 3-year DFS was 96.0% for patients treated with chemotherapy plus BLINCYTO compared to 87.9% for those treated with only chemotherapy. The hazard ratio (HR) was 0.39 [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.24-0.64], indicating a 61% reduction in the risk of disease relapse, secondary malignant neoplasm or remission death with BLINCYTO. At 3 years, more patients remained alive and cancer free when treated with BLINCYTO plus chemotherapy compared to chemotherapy alone. "The AALL1731 study results are truly practice-changing, further solidifying blinatumomab's role as the standard of care for a large number of children with B-ALL," said Sumit Gupta , M.D., Ph.D., FRCPC, co-chair of the Children's Oncology Group AALL1731 study and oncologist and clinician investigator, Division of Haematology/Oncology at The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) and associate professor of pediatrics at the University of Toronto . "These breakthrough data showing a significant improvement in disease-free survival are poised to bring substantial clinical value to children with newly diagnosed B-ALL." The addition of BLINCYTO to chemotherapy in standard risk patients resulted in outcomes similar to those previously achieved in only the most favorable pediatric risk subsets. Among SR-Average patients, 3-year DFS was 97.5% for patients treated with BLINCYTO compared to 90.2% for those treated with only chemotherapy (HR 0.33, CI 0.15-0.69). For SR-High patients, 3-year DFS was 94.1% for those treated with BLINCYTO compared to 84.8% for those treated with only chemotherapy (HR 0.45, 95% CI 0.24-0.85). "Relapsed ALL remains a major cause of pediatric cancer mortality, with nearly half of the relapses occurring in children with standard-risk B-ALL," said Rachel E. Rau , M.D., co-chair of the Children's Oncology Group AALL1731 study, pediatric hematologist-oncologist at Seattle Children's Hospital and associate professor of pediatrics at the University of Washington . "These findings underscore the progress made with blinatumomab in preventing relapse and support its role as a critical addition to current therapeutic strategies." Safety results are consistent with the known safety profile of BLINCYTO. BLINCYTO has demonstrated a positive balance of benefits and risks, with only 0.3% of first courses associated with Grade 3+ cytokine release syndrome (CRS) and 0.7% with seizures. A higher risk of infections was observed in the BLINCYTO arm. These results provide the first evidence supporting BLINCYTO for use in the consolidation phase in newly diagnosed pediatric Philadelphia chromosome-negative (Ph-) B-ALL patients. This groundbreaking first-in-class Bispecific T-cell Engager (BiTE ® ) therapy is now backed by additional evidence reinforcing its role in redefining a standard of care for both adult and pediatric patients, starting from one month old, regardless of measurable residual disease (MRD) status. The findings further establish BLINCYTO as a versatile first-line consolidation therapy across all ages and treatment backbones. The NCI's Cancer Therapy Evaluation Program (CTEP), which sponsored the study will share data with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration as part of their ongoing communications relating to the trial. About The Children's Oncology Group The Children's Oncology Group (childrensoncologygroup.org), a member of the NCI National Clinical Trials Network (NCTN), is the world's largest organization devoted exclusively to childhood and adolescent cancer research. The Children's Oncology Group unites over 10,000 experts in childhood cancer at more than 200 leading children's hospitals, universities and cancer centers across North America , Australia , New Zealand and Saudi Arabia in the fight against childhood cancer. Today, more than 80% of the 15,000 children and adolescents diagnosed with cancer each year in the United States are cared for at Children's Oncology Group member institutions. Research performed by Children's Oncology Group institutions over the past 50 years has transformed childhood cancer from a virtually incurable disease to one with a combined 5-year survival rate of 86%. The Children's Oncology Group's mission is to improve the cure rate and outcomes for all children with cancer. About AALL1731 (NCT03914625) The AALL1731 study was a Phase 3 randomized trial to determine if two non-sequential cycles of BLINCYTO added to chemotherapy improved disease-free survival (DFS) in children with newly diagnosed pediatric National Cancer Institute (NCI) standard risk (SR) B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL). The study enrolled 4,264 newly diagnosed NCI SR B-ALL patients, of whom 2,334 were risk stratified at the end of induction therapy as either SR-Average or SR-High. At the first planned interim efficacy analysis (data cutoff June 30, 2024 ), 1,440 of the eligible and evaluable patients had been randomized. The AALL1731 study was designed and conducted independently from industry. The Cancer Therapy Evaluation Program (CTEP) of the NCI sponsored the trial and provided funding to the Children's Oncology Group to conduct the study. NCI is part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH). In addition, Amgen provided BLINCYTO and support through an NCI Cooperative Research and Development Agreement. About Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) ALL, also known as acute lymphoblastic leukemia, is a fast-growing type of blood cancer that develops in the bone marrow and can sometimes spread to other parts of the body, including the lymph nodes, liver, spleen and central nervous system. ALL is a rare disease, with an estimated 6,550 new cases, affecting both children and adults, diagnosed in the U.S. in 2024. 1 B-ALL begins in immature cells that would normally develop into B-cell lymphocytes, which are white blood cells that grow in bone marrow. 2,3 B-ALL is the most common type of ALL, constituting approximately 75% of cases in adults and approximately 88% in children, the most common cancer in children. 4,5 About BLINCYTO ® (blinatumomab) BLINCYTO is the first globally approved Bispecific T-cell Engager (BiTE ® ) immuno-oncology therapy that targets CD19 surface antigens on B cells. BiTE ® molecules fight cancer by helping the body's immune system detect and target malignant cells by engaging T cells (a type of white blood cell capable of killing other cells perceived as threats) to cancer cells. By bringing T cells near cancer cells, the T cells can inject toxins and trigger cancer cell death (apoptosis). BiTE ® immuno-oncology therapies are currently being investigated for their potential to treat a wide variety of cancers. BLINCYTO was granted Breakthrough Therapy and Priority Review designations by the U.S. FDA and is approved in the U.S. for the treatment of: In the European Union (EU), BLINCYTO is indicated as monotherapy for the treatment of: BLINCYTO ® IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION WARNING: CYTOKINE RELEASE SYNDROME and NEUROLOGICAL TOXICITIES including IMMUNE EFFECTOR CELL-ASSOCIATED NEUROTOXICITY SYNDROME Contraindications BLINCYTO ® is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to blinatumomab or to any component of the product formulation. Warnings and Precautions Adverse Reactions Dosage and Administration Guidelines INDICATIONS BLINCYTO ® (blinatumomab) is indicated for the treatment of CD19-positive B-cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) in adult and pediatric patients one month and older with: Please see BLINCYTO ® full Prescribing Information , including BOXED WARNINGS. About Bispecific T-Cell Engager (BiTE ® ) Technology BiTE technology is a targeted immuno-oncology platform that is designed to engage a patient's own T cells to any tumor-specific antigen, activating the cytotoxic potential of T cells to eliminate detectable cancer. The BiTE immuno-oncology platform has the potential to treat different cancer types through tumor-specific antigens. The BiTE platform has a goal of leading to off-the-shelf solutions, which have the potential to make innovative T-cell treatment available to all providers when their patients need it. For more than a decade, Amgen has been advancing this innovative technology, which has demonstrated strong efficacy in hematological malignancies and now a solid tumor with the approval of IMDELLTRA. Amgen remains committed to progressing multiple BiTE molecules across a broad range of hematologic and solid tumor malignancies, paving the way for additional applications in more tumor types. Amgen is further investigating BiTE technology with the goal of enhancing patient experience and therapeutic potential. To learn more about BiTE technology, visit BiTE ® Technology 101 . About Amgen Amgen discovers, develops, manufactures and delivers innovative medicines to help millions of patients in their fight against some of the world's toughest diseases. More than 40 years ago, Amgen helped to establish the biotechnology industry and remains on the cutting-edge of innovation, using technology and human genetic data to push beyond what's known today. Amgen is advancing a broad and deep pipeline that builds on its existing portfolio of medicines to treat cancer, heart disease, osteoporosis, inflammatory diseases and rare diseases. In 2024, Amgen was named one of the "World's Most Innovative Companies" by Fast Company and one of "America's Best Large Employers" by Forbes, among other external recognitions . Amgen is one of the 30 companies that comprise the Dow Jones Industrial Average ® , and it is also part of the Nasdaq-100 Index ® , which includes the largest and most innovative non-financial companies listed on the Nasdaq Stock Market based on market capitalization. For more information, visit Amgen.com and follow Amgen on X , LinkedIn , Instagram , TikTok , YouTube and Threads . Amgen Forward-Looking Statements This news release contains forward-looking statements that are based on the current expectations and beliefs of Amgen. 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Forward-looking statements involve significant risks and uncertainties, including those discussed below and more fully described in the Securities and Exchange Commission reports filed by Amgen, including its most recent annual report on Form 10-K and any subsequent periodic reports on Form 10-Q and current reports on Form 8-K. Unless otherwise noted, Amgen is providing this information as of the date of this news release and does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statements contained in this document as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. No forward-looking statement can be guaranteed and actual results may differ materially from those Amgen projects. Discovery or identification of new product candidates or development of new indications for existing products cannot be guaranteed and movement from concept to product is uncertain; consequently, there can be no guarantee that any particular product candidate or development of a new indication for an existing product will be successful and become a commercial product. Further, preclinical results do not guarantee safe and effective performance of product candidates in humans. The complexity of the human body cannot be perfectly, or sometimes, even adequately modeled by computer or cell culture systems or animal models. The length of time that it takes for Amgen to complete clinical trials and obtain regulatory approval for product marketing has in the past varied and Amgen expects similar variability in the future. Even when clinical trials are successful, regulatory authorities may question the sufficiency for approval of the trial endpoints Amgen has selected. Amgen develops product candidates internally and through licensing collaborations, partnerships and joint ventures. Product candidates that are derived from relationships may be subject to disputes between the parties or may prove to be not as effective or as safe as Amgen may have believed at the time of entering into such relationship. Also, Amgen or others could identify safety, side effects or manufacturing problems with its products, including its devices, after they are on the market. Amgen's results may be affected by its ability to successfully market both new and existing products domestically and internationally, clinical and regulatory developments involving current and future products, sales growth of recently launched products, competition from other products including biosimilars, difficulties or delays in manufacturing its products and global economic conditions. In addition, sales of Amgen's products are affected by pricing pressure, political and public scrutiny and reimbursement policies imposed by third-party payers, including governments, private insurance plans and managed care providers and may be affected by regulatory, clinical and guideline developments and domestic and international trends toward managed care and healthcare cost containment. Furthermore, Amgen's research, testing, pricing, marketing and other operations are subject to extensive regulation by domestic and foreign government regulatory authorities. Amgen's business may be impacted by government investigations, litigation and product liability claims. In addition, Amgen's business may be impacted by the adoption of new tax legislation or exposure to additional tax liabilities. If Amgen fails to meet the compliance obligations in the corporate integrity agreement between Amgen and the U.S. government, Amgen could become subject to significant sanctions. 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CONTACT: Amgen, Thousand Oaks Elissa Snook , 609-251-1407 (media) Justin Claeys , 805-313-9775 (investors) References View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/blincyto-blinatumomab-added-to-chemotherapy-significantly-improves-survival-in-newly-diagnosed-pediatric-patients-with-b-cell-precursor-acute-lymphoblastic-leukemia-b-all-302325381.html SOURCE Amgen'Open your doors': Notre Dame re-opens after five-year refitOcean of peace in a world of a warAcross the Hudson River, less than a 15 mile drive from the starting point of the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, is Macy's Studios, where the magic is made. While the big show takes place on the fourth Thursday in November, the annual spectacle itself is a yearlong process starting with sketches that turn into 3D renderings, before being brought to life on the studio floor, where they are sculpted and receive a layer of hard coating to ensure that the elements are more durable and can then be painted. Ahead of the 98th march, which will feature six new floats, six new character balloons as well as new technology, Parade went behind the scenes of the cherished holiday tradition with its executive producer, Will Coss . "We bring joy. That's something that we don't take lightly here at Macy's Studios. We have an opportunity to bring three-and-a-half hours of joy," Coss told Parade during a visit to Macy's Studios in late October. "We have an eclectic audience. We take that very seriously." "We want to make sure, from a performance standpoint, from a character standpoint, from a production and special effects standpoint, we're taking into consideration our entire audience and delivering on a little bit of joy," Coss added. "This is an iconic tradition that brings people together." Continue reading (and watch above) to learn how Will and the skilled artisans at Macy’s Studios bring a sketch to the streets of New York City—and our screens—on Thanksgiving morning. Parade When does preparation begin on the floats? When do you decide if we're adding this new one, or we're going to do a partnership with this brand? Coss: The conversations around the new elements of the parade is a year-round process. Each individual float itself is anywhere from three-to-six months of full production, from the first time that we start the initial creative concepting to our final execution. All of our elements that you see across the studio are all hand sculpted and painted. All of these items start with a sketch. So we do a variety of sketches, then we turn them into 3D renders, and then the team gets them down here on the floor, where they start to become real life, three-dimensional objects. Parade What are some challenges you guys face, or any challenges you encountered this year? Coss: It's less about challenges. I think this is a really well-prepared team. What you see here are a variety of designers, sculptors, painters [and] carpenters who are all experts at their craft. We might have some production challenges, if we design something that, once it's fabricated, might not fit exactly correctly. [The Wondrous World of Wildlife by Bronx Zoo float], for example, is three separate floats that are connected together to create this one massive experience. So there were some tweaks we had to do to the bridge because it's gonna be a modular float. It's not gonna be one singular unit. So those are things that we work through once we have some physical elements created and we make some tweaks and adjustments. But overall, we've done this a couple of times, we understand the deliverable, and we're excited to bring these brand-new floats to the parade this year. Parade How do you determine which performers perform on which float? Coss: Our goal for the parade is really, it's America's show. Our audience is [ages] 1 to 100, so our focus on our goal is really just creating the most eclectic version of the parade. So we look at all of our floats, we look at all of our off-float performances, and we start to make [those] decisions based on the cadence of the show and making sure that we've got the best playlist on Thanksgiving morning. Parade Are there going to be any new technologies incorporated into the parade this year? Coss: What I'd say is our most technologically advanced float that we've ever designed and fabricated ... [is] in partnership with Go Bowling, and it's our first fully animatronic float. Our bowler will have full range of movement, full range of motion. As she makes her way down the parade route, she's going to be able to actually bring the ball all the way back, bend the knee and make the bowling motion. This kind of motion and computerized programming is a new addition to the parade this year. So how will this work? Coss: So [Macy's Studios employee Matt's] doing all the programming right now, and that'll live on a computer on the float itself... There'll be a driver and a passenger, and the passenger will be the one who will be responsible for controlling the animation. So there'll be a variety of buttons. How do you decide which floats you're going to recycle from a previous year? And same with the balloons? Some come back, some don't. Coss: It's a conversation with our internal team on, ultimately, what will make the best parade and the choices that we make obviously impact the line of march. So we want to make sure that we're telling both a creative story, a visual story ... all of those decisions happen well in advance of our production year. Related: Take a Look Back at the 2023 Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade Balloons How many people generally work on each float, or how many studio members are there? Coss: At any given time, we have upwards of 30 folks, from sculpt to paint to metal work to our balloon team. Are the balloons and floats stored here year-round? Coss: We have a storage facility. So not all of our balloons and floats are stored here. Some of them are... All of our giant balloons get stored in hampers. Parade How long is the process of creating a new balloon for the Macy's Day Parade? Coss: Depending on the complexity of the character, it can take upwards of three-to-four months for any one balloon to get fully designed and fabricated. Parade What are you most excited for viewers to see this year in the parade? Coss: I'm most excited for viewers to see all of our brand-new elements. I think that the collection of characters that we have this year are fantastic. We've got classics, like Spider-Man who's been in the parade a variety of times. Gabby's Dollhouse. Gabby is a brand new character that's really tracking well with our younger audiences. I think we've done a really nice job of having an eclectic group of balloons that are gonna touch a variety of audiences and get people excited. Related: 60 of Thanksgiving Songs That Will Make You Feel Instantly Grateful (And Probably Hungry!) After all these years of doing this, what surprises you every year? Coss: I don't know that it's surprise. I'd say the thing that excites me the most, is parade morning when you have [a] year to 18 months worth of work all situated on the Upper West Side. You've got two-and-a-half miles of parade, 3 million plus people, and it's just smiles, it's joy, it's excitement, and everyone is there to celebrate the hard work of this team, the hard work of our partners, all the creative and talented folks across Macy's Studios. Hoda [Kotb] is retiring [from TODAY ] next year. Are there plans to keep her on for the parade? Would you like to see her stay on? Hoda is a Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade icon, a legend, and we look forward to celebrating with Hoda as long as Hoda is here to celebrate with us. This interview has been edited for length and clarity. Related: Everything to Know About the 2024 Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade
Londoners continue to dig themselves out from this week’s massive snowstorm. “It's been pretty brutal getting up every day and driving to work, and then we spend the first hour or so just cleaning off cars,” said Trevor Ebert, salesperson at Leavens Chrysler in east London. “We have seven salespeople here, and all of us getting out here, it takes us hours to clear off even just all the cars, not to mention moving things so that the plow can come through.” The north and east ends of the city were blasted with snow this week, and some parking lots have banks about six feet high. Just a few kilometres from Leaven’s, the London International Airport (YXU) has resumed normal operations. “Everything is clear, and you wouldn't really know, looking at the runways or some of the parking lots, other than the massive piles of snow that have accumulated, that we had the weather that we did,” said Scott McFadzean, YXU chief executive officer. “It's really just all hands-on deck around the clock with every single person in the airport working to help clear snow. We saw a few of the Air Canada Jazz connectors into Toronto got canceled as a result of the snow, but all of the sun destination flying continued and our WestJet to Calgary continued.” A year ago, the Argyle BIA Santa Claus Parade went off without any snow. This year, there was just too much. Bethany Mejia (left), executive director of the Argyle BIA and Rob Graham, chairman of the Argyle BIA, say the heavy snowfall forced the cancellation of the 10th annual Santa Claus parade on Dec. 7, 2024. (Brent Lale/CTV News London) “The snow drifts on Dundas are simply too high for spectators, and the parade routes on both exits were not cleared for snow,” said Bethany Mejia, executive director of the Argyle BIA. “We just thought due to the safety and concerns in the community, we will postpone the 10-year anniversary until next year and it'll be the best parade we've ever had.” One of the major problems was the staging area in the Home Depot parking lot could not hold the dozens of floats. Where they would normally stage three wide, they could only do one row. “The plows just can't keep up with the demand,” said Rob Graham, chairman of the Argyle BIA. “We're getting three months worth of snow in three days, so it really adds up. The schools have been canceled for two days straight. It’s not a decision that we had to take lightly, and I'm still wiping that tear away from my eye.” Santa Claus poses for a photo with Wesley Clark and his parents Matt Clark and Skyler Favalaro at Warehouse Guys in London, Ont. on Saturday, Dec. 7, 2024. (Brent Lale/CTV News London) However, the Argyle BIA didn’t leave the kids out in the cold. Warehouse Guys on Dundas St. hosted an autograph session with the London Knights, and they brought Santa to greet the kids in lieu of the parade. “We’re really trying to make something positive out of it,” said Chris Metron, owner of Warehouse Guys. “Having the London Knights fans all show up, this is still a great feeling. It’s a Christmas event and we have Santa here, so it's all good.” Shopping Trends The Shopping Trends team is independent of the journalists at CTV News. We may earn a commission when you use our links to shop. Read about us. Editor's Picks Our Guide To The Most Giftable Toys In 2024 17 Sweet Treats And Snacks That Make Great Stocking Stuffers The Best Gift Ideas From Canadian Brands For Everyone On Your List Home Our Guide To The Best Sectional Sofas You Can Get In Canada Our Guide To The Best Electric Snow Shovels In Canada In 2024 (And Where To Get Them) Our Guide To The Best Hydroponic Gardens In Canada In 2024 (And Where To Get Them) Gifts 20 Of The Best Gifts Worth Splurging On In 2024 Mary Berg's Favourite Kitchen Products To Gift This Holiday Season The Best Gifts to Give Your Dad in 2024 Beauty Our Guide To The Best Self Tanners You Can Get In Canada 20 Anti-Aging Skincare Products That Reviewers Can’t Stop Talking About 12 Budget-Friendly Makeup Brushes And Tools Worth Adding To Your Kit Deals Black Friday May Be Over, But You Can Still Take Advantage Of These Amazing Sales On Amazon Canada It's Officially Travel Tuesday: Here Are The Best Deals On Flights, Hotels, And Vacations The Waterpik Advanced Water Flosser Will Make Cleaning Your Teeth So Much Easier — And It's 40% Off For Cyber Monday London Top Stories Digging themselves out: With parade cancelled, Londoners make best of snowy situation Want to become the next LHSC Auxiliary volunteer? Here’s how Cookie inflation: How much more is your holiday baking costing you this year? CTV News London’s top stories from this week Homeless encampments buried in snow, city hall’s response falling short SIU: driver that fled OPP traffic stop in Arva fatally injured Wingham emergency department closed Saturday Running behind on your shoveling? Now's the time to hop to it. CTVNews.ca Top Stories Canada Post strike: Union 'extremely disappointed' in latest offer, negotiator says A negotiator for the Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) says the latest offer from Canada Post to end the ongoing strike shows the carrier is moving in the "opposite direction." An archbishop's knock formally restores Notre Dame to life as winds howl and heads of state look on France's iconic Notre Dame Cathedral is formally reopening its doors on Saturday for the first time since a devastating fire nearly destroyed the 861-year-old landmark in 2019. Canada's air force took video of object shot down over Yukon, updated image released The Canadian military has released more details and an updated image of the unidentified object shot down over Canada's Yukon territory in February 2023. Why finding the suspected CEO killer is harder than you might think He killed a high-profile CEO on a sidewalk in America’s largest city, where thousands of surveillance cameras monitor millions of people every day. Sask. doctor facing professional charges in circumcision case A Saskatoon doctor has been accused of unprofessional conduct following a high-cost adult circumcision that included a request for the patient to text unsecured post-op pictures of his genitals. Man arrested after 16-hour standoff with Barrie police seeks to be released from custody The 43-year-old man taken to hospital in distress following a 16-hour armed standoff with Barrie police last month is seeking bail. Facing the holidays without family ties or the romantic partner of your dreams? Here's how to make this season fulfilling While the holiday season is often a time rich with cheer love and family connections, it can also be a painful reminder of what once was. Digging themselves out: With parade cancelled, Londoners make best of snowy situation Londoners continue to dig themselves out from this week’s massive snowstorm. Quebec City bus driver arrested for drunk-driving after collision A Réseau de transport de la capitale (RTC) bus driver has been arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol after being involved in a collision in Quebec City late Friday evening. Kitchener Canada Post strike: Union 'extremely disappointed' in latest offer, negotiator says A negotiator for the Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) says the latest offer from Canada Post to end the ongoing strike shows the carrier is moving in the "opposite direction." Police seek tips in Waterloo break-in Waterloo Regional Police are investigating a break-and-enter at a Waterloo business. Invasive species could be hiding in your Christmas decor. Here's how to stop the spread Make sure to look through your holiday decorations, as Christmas trees, wreaths, and other natural decor can have invasive insects, eggs, and plants that pose a threat to local ecosystems and the economy. Barrie One dead in three-vehicle crash Police are investigating a three-vehicle overnight collision in Caledon, which resulted in the death of one driver. Blue Mountain opens for ski season Blue Mountain Ski Resort officially opened for the ski season on Saturday with two lifts, seven runs and one terrain park in operation. OPP make arrests in three impaired driving incidents in one night Three drivers are facing multiple charges after OPP responded to three different reported impaired driving incidents in the same night in Orillia. Windsor Man arrested after livestreaming sexual abuse of child The Windsor Police Service say they’ve arrested a 29-year-old man after the sexual abuse of a child was livestreamed on social media. 'I do think it is extraordinary': Law community expresses concern over notwithstanding clause threat Hundreds of professionals within the law community have expressed concern with the premier’s threat of using the notwithstanding clause to back new legislation promising a crackdown on encampments. Three people with outstanding warrants arrested by CK police Chatham-Kent police arrested three people with outstanding warrants on Friday. Northern Ontario How to watch this year's CTV Lions Children's Christmas Telethon Dec. 7 marks the first Saturday of December, which means it is time for the annual CTV Lions Children's Christmas Telethon. Here is what you need to know. Canada Post strike: Union 'extremely disappointed' in latest offer, negotiator says A negotiator for the Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) says the latest offer from Canada Post to end the ongoing strike shows the carrier is moving in the "opposite direction." Northern Ontario man sentenced for killing his dog WARNING: This article contains graphic details of animal abuse which may be upsetting to some readers. A 40-year-old northern Ontario man is avoiding prison after pleading guilty to killing his dog earlier this year. Sault Ste. Marie Winter weather travel advisory in effect for Sault, Sudbury, North Bay Environment Canada has issued a winter weather travel advisory for Sault Ste. Marie, Sudbury and North Bay. Northern Ontario man sentenced for killing his dog WARNING: This article contains graphic details of animal abuse which may be upsetting to some readers. A 40-year-old northern Ontario man is avoiding prison after pleading guilty to killing his dog earlier this year. Sault College health students showcase their work Sault College students from three different health-care programs had the opportunity to present their work to local industry leaders at the institute’s second Health Care Research Showcase. Ottawa WINTER TRAVEL ADVISORY | Winter travel advisory in effect for Ottawa A winter travel advisory is in effect for Ottawa. It was issued by Environment Canada Saturday morning and will be in effect starting this afternoon until Sunday morning. Here are some creative and cost-efficient ways to wrap gifts this holiday season Wrapping your holiday gifts can be done uniquely and elegantly using household items without breaking the wallet, says an Ottawa expert. Canada Post strike: Union 'extremely disappointed' in latest offer, negotiator says A negotiator for the Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) says the latest offer from Canada Post to end the ongoing strike shows the carrier is moving in the "opposite direction." Toronto Three people taken to hospital after triple shooting in downtown Toronto Toronto Police are on the scene of shooting that has sent three people to the hospital in the early hours of Saturday morning. Striking Canada Post workers continue annual Santa letter tradition, while also helping Toronto food bank Striking postal workers in Toronto’s west end are giving their time this holiday season to bring smiles to the faces of children in the community, while also helping their local food bank. ‘Hazardous’ driving conditions possible in GTA Saturday amid expected snow: Environment Canada Those getting around the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) today may want to use a bit of extra caution on the roads. Montreal Legault in France for the reopening of Notre-Dame de Paris Cathedral Quebec Premier François Legault is in France for the reopening of Notre-Dame de Paris Cathedral. Superior Court authorizes class action against junior hockey league over abuse of minors The Quebec Superior Court authorized the institution of a class action aimed at compensating all minors who suffered abuse while playing in the Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League (QMJHL). Man arrested for DUI after car crashed into Mile-End restaurant A man was arrested for drunk driving after allegedly losing control of his vehicle and hitting three parked cars before skidding off and crashing into a restaurant in Montreal's Mile-End neighbourhood early Saturday morning. Atlantic WATCH LIVE | 61st annual Christmas Daddies Telethon airs Saturday on CTV A beloved yearly tradition, the Christmas Daddies Telethon airs from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 7, on CTV. Fortress of Louisbourg in Nova Scotia brings Christmas past into the present The Fortress of Louisbourg Association and Parks Canada are encouraging visitors to see the historic site in the winter with a Christmas concert series. Canada Post strike: Union 'extremely disappointed' in latest offer, negotiator says A negotiator for the Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) says the latest offer from Canada Post to end the ongoing strike shows the carrier is moving in the "opposite direction." Winnipeg Major Manitoba fossil milestones highlight the potential for future discoveries in the province A trio of fossil finds through the years helped put Manitoba on the mosasaur map, and the milestone of those finds have all been marked in 2024. Man charged after unprovoked attack outside Winnipeg hospital A 30-year-old man has been charged with assault after police say he attacked another man outside Seven Oaks General Hospital. Family, store employee evacuate by Winnipeg police in Friday morning fire Five people, including a family of four, were evacuated by police and treated for smoke inhalation after a fire in the 400 block of Burrows Avenue Friday morning. Calgary Calgary company steps up to help grieving family with free furnace after fatal carbon monoxide poisoning A Calgary furnace company stepped up big time Friday to help a Calgary family grieving the loss of a loved one. Calgarians panicked as Canada Post strike enters fourth week The impacts of the Canada Post strike are ramping up as other shippers pause their pick-ups to clear growing backlogs. Storybook Theatre extends holiday run of ‘Beauty and the Beast’ into 2025 If you weren’t able to get a ticket to Storybook Theatre’s holiday production of Beauty and the Beast, the theatre offered renewed hope Saturday. Edmonton 'A safe haven': Edmonton family gives the gift of biodiversity with land donation This giving season, one Edmonton family is going big. Security guard killed at Edmonton apartment building Homicide detectives are investigating the death of a security guard in central Edmonton on Friday morning. Bill fast-tracking resort development sets 'problematic' precedent, critics say A bill giving Alberta’s government power to reclassify land in provincial parks for the development of all-season resorts has some concerned about environmental impacts and the “problematic” precedent it sets by allowing the province to bypass existing legislation. Regina Regina holiday market booming as vendors encourage local shopping amid postal strike The holidays are the busiest time of year for countless businesses, but many Regina vendors are hoping Christmas shoppers will come to them this year amid ongoing job action at Canada Post. Sask. woman killed after vehicle crashes into bottom of embankment: RCMP A 50-year-old woman from Hudson Bay, Sask. was killed after the vehicle she was in left the roadway on Highway 9 on Friday. Sask. doctor facing professional charges in circumcision case A Saskatoon doctor has been accused of unprofessional conduct following a high-cost adult circumcision that included a request for the patient to text unsecured post-op pictures of his genitals. Saskatoon Saskatoon under winter storm warning with freezing rain, heavy snow forecasted A winter storm warning has been issued for the city of Saskatoon and parts of west central Saskatchewan by Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC). Sask. doctor facing professional charges in circumcision case A Saskatoon doctor has been accused of unprofessional conduct following a high-cost adult circumcision that included a request for the patient to text unsecured post-op pictures of his genitals. Sask. woman killed after vehicle crashes into bottom of embankment: RCMP A 50-year-old woman from Hudson Bay, Sask. was killed after the vehicle she was in left the roadway on Highway 9 on Friday. Vancouver B.C. RCMP warn of credit card scam involving fake taxi Mounties in Burnaby are warning residents about a bank card scam that tries to dupe people by using a fake taxi. Environment Canada issues snowfall, freezing rain warnings for parts of B.C. Wintery weather is in store for parts of B.C.’s Interior over the weekend, according to Environment Canada. Resilient Vancouver Canucks making multi-goal comebacks routine Falling behind has become a habit for the Vancouver Canucks this season. Making a big comeback has, too. Vancouver Island B.C. ombudsman to investigate delay in sending social assistance cheques amid post strike Thousands of social assistance cheques have not been distributed in British Columbia because of the Canada Post strike, prompting an investigation by provincial ombudsperson Jay Chalke. Long time coming: Taylor Swift's Eras Tour arrives at final stop in Vancouver Pop superstar Taylor Swift greeted some 55,000 eager fans in downtown Vancouver Friday with what’s become a familiar opening line. Four-year-old superhero inspires smiles at B.C. long-term care home While he’s not faster than a speeding bullet, nor more powerful than a locomotive, this four-year-old is proving to be a superhero. Stay ConnectedJudge rejects request to sideline SJSU volleyball playerOttawa police say a 54-year-old man is facing several charges after allegedly going more than three times the speed limit this weekend. The driver was first spotted on Merivale Road near Meadowlands drive overnight Sunday, where police say he accelerated to more than 180 km/h in a 60 km/h zone. The man was eventually stopped and arrested at a red light on West Hunt Club Road. He is charged with impaired driving, over 80, and stunt driving. The stunt driving charge comes with an automatic vehicle impound of 14 days, but the man will be waiting much longer before he can drive again. Police said because he is charged with both impaired driving and stunt driving, he is facing a double licence suspension. An impaired driving charge comes with an automatic 90-day suspension, and a stunt driving charge comes with a 30-day suspension. "Reckless speeding and impaired driving put lives at risk. If you witness dangerous driving, report it immediately at 9-1-1. Let’s work together to keep our roads safe this holiday season!" Ottawa police said. Shopping Trends The Shopping Trends team is independent of the journalists at CTV News. We may earn a commission when you use our links to shop. Read about us. Editor's Picks 10 Family Calendars And Planners That'll Help You Keep Track Of Everything In The New Year Our Guide To The Best Winter Boots You Can Get In Canada 16 Cozy Home Essentials That Cost Less Than $100 Home Our Guide To The Best Snow Shovels In Canada In 2024 (And Where To Get Them) 14 Of The Best Home Security Devices You Can Find Online Right Now (And They've Got The Reviews To Prove It) 13 Of The Best Fidget Toys For Adults Gifts The Clock Is Ticking — Shop These 25 Last-Minute Amazon Prime Gifts Now If You Have An Amazon Prime Account, These 70+ Crowd-Pleasing Gifts Will Still Arrive Before Christmas If You Have An Amazon Prime Account, These 50 Brilliant Stocking Stuffers Will Still Arrive Before Christmas Beauty 20 Products Your Dry, Dehydrated Skin Will Thank You For Ordering 14 Hydrating Face Masks That’ll Save Your Skin This December 12 Budget-Friendly Products To Add To Your Winter Skincare Routine Deals 50+ Of The Best Amazon Canada Boxing Day Sales, Deals, And Discounts For 2024 The Altitude Sports Boxing Day Sale Has Begun — Here's What We're Shopping For PSA: The Michael Kors Boxing Week Sale Is Happening Right Now Ottawa Top Stories OPP and Ottawa firefighters help remove vehicle wedged into Highway 417 overpass Ottawa driver gets double licence suspension after allegedly going 3 times the speed limit Ottawa welcomes new Team Canada fans with citizenship ceremony ahead of the World Juniors A light snow on Christmas Eve ahead of Ottawa's white Christmas Traffic dispute threatens to dampen holiday spirit on Taffy Lane House to Home organization in Ottawa helps newcomers set up their lives Read Trudeau's Christmas message What's open and closed in Ottawa over the holidays CTVNews.ca Top Stories What is flagpoling? A new ban on the practice is starting to take effect Immigration measures announced as part of Canada's border response to president-elect Donald Trump's 25 per cent tariff threat are starting to be implemented, beginning with a ban on what's known as 'flagpoling.' Hong Kong police issue arrest warrants and bounties for six activists including two Canadians Hong Kong police on Tuesday announced a fresh round of arrest warrants for six activists based overseas, with bounties set at $1 million Hong Kong dollars for information leading to their arrests. Indigenous family faced discrimination in North Bay, Ont., when they were kicked off transit bus Ontario's Human Rights Tribunal has awarded members of an Indigenous family in North Bay $15,000 each after it ruled they were victims of discrimination. OPP and Ottawa firefighters help remove vehicle wedged into Highway 417 overpass Ottawa firefighters and local Ontario Provincial Police officers were called to a bizarre scene Tuesday morning along Highway 417, where a driver managed to wedge his vehicle under an overpass. U.S. president-elect's son shares post on X of Donald Trump buying Canada on Amazon U.S. president-elect Donald Trump and those in his corner continue to send out strong messages about Canada. Read Trudeau's Christmas message Prime Minister Justin Trudeau issued his Christmas message on Tuesday. Here is his message in full. Quebec fugitive gunned down leaving gym in Mexican resort town RCMP are confirming that a fugitive, Mathieu Belanger, wanted by Quebec provincial police has died in Mexico, in what local media are calling a murder. Justin Baldoni's 'Man Enough' podcast co-host Liz Plank announces her departure Justin Baldoni's 'Man Enough' podcast co-host Liz Plank announced she's stepping away from the show after actress Blake Lively accused the actor and director of sexual harassment and a smear campaign in a civil rights complaint last week. Heavy travel day off to a rough start after American Airlines briefly grounds all flights American Airlines briefly grounded flights nationwide Tuesday due to a technical problem just as the Christmas travel season kicked into overdrive and winter weather threatened more potential problems for those planning to fly or drive. Atlantic Snow forecast through Christmas Eve for parts of the Maritimes Parts of the Maritimes that were hit by a weekend snowstorm are in for more of the white stuff this Christmas Eve. 'Can I taste it?': Rare $55,000 bottle of spirits for sale in Moncton, N.B. A rare bottle of Scotch whisky is for sale in downtown Moncton, N.B., with a price tag reading $55,000. N.S. Health warns parents of salmonella exposure at Halifax daycare Nova Scotia Health is warning parents whose children attend a Halifax daycare of a salmonella exposure. Toronto Trudeau could stay or go. Either way, Canadians should brace for a spring election Canada appears to be barrelling toward a spring election now that the NDP is vowing to vote down the government early next year -- whether Prime Minister Justin Trudeau stays on or not. Suspect charged after woman sexually assaulted by stranger at Keele Station: Toronto police Toronto police have arrested a suspect in connection with an alleged sexual assault at a TTC subway station in the city’s west end. Woman seriously injured after stabbing in Moss Park: paramedics A stabbing in Toronto’s Moss Park neighbourhood Tuesday morning has left a woman with serious injuries as police search for a suspect. Montreal Snowfall means a white Christmas, but also traffic woes across southern Quebec roads A heavy snowfall has guaranteed much of Quebec a white Christmas, but it has also sent cars skidding off the province's roads during the busy holiday travel period. As governments try to solve housing crisis, modular homes emerge as potential solution With all three levels of governments looking to find ways to build more housing and faster, one Quebec builder says it has the solution. Quebec doing better job at retaining immigrants, Atlantic Canada still struggling Immigrants are increasingly choosing to stay in Quebec, according to a new report from Statistics Canada, but the same isn't true in the Atlantic region, which continues to lose newcomers to the rest of the country. Northern Ontario Indigenous family faced discrimination in North Bay, Ont., when they were kicked off transit bus Ontario's Human Rights Tribunal has awarded members of an Indigenous family in North Bay $15,000 each after it ruled they were victims of discrimination. Norad crew waiting for Santa to fly over Canada as annual holiday track underway Departing from the North Pole while we were all sleeping, Santa Claus' journey around the world bringing presents and Christmas cheer for all of the good boys and girls who believe is underway. U.S. president-elect's son shares post on X of Donald Trump buying Canada on Amazon U.S. president-elect Donald Trump and those in his corner continue to send out strong messages about Canada. Windsor WECHU warning of positive avian influenza cases The Windsor-Essex County Health Unit (WECHU) is working to alert the public of the dangers of avian influenza after waterfowl in the area tested positive. Chatham police aware of physical incident between two children going viral on social media The Chatham-Kent Police Service said it is aware of a video going viral on social media, showing a physical incident between two children in the area. Over the holidays, the gift you can give yourself is taking care of your mental health The holiday season can be challenging for many – whether it’s lonely, overwhelming, busy, quiet, or a reminder of people that can’t be with you. London London fire responds to Wellington Road collision, contains fuel leak London Fire Department was on the scene of a two vehicle collision involving a delivery truck on Tuesday morning. 'It’s a surprise': Shoebox Project gives women impacted by homelessness a Christmas gift For many of the women attending My Sister’s Place (MSP) in London, Ont. the holidays are a difficult time. Proposed Grand Bend community centre features variety of amenities, with a cost of $20 million A conceptual facility design proposes a variety of features for the much anticipated addition to the community. Kitchener What’s open and what’s closed over the holidays A detailed guide to what’s open and closed between Dec. 25 and New Year's Day. Pedestrian seriously hurt following collision in Norfolk County Bell Mill Sideroad was closed for several hours between Rokeby Sideroad and Goshen Road but has since reopened. Police investigating after vandalization of Pride crosswalk in Waterloo Waterloo Regional Police are investigating after a Pride crosswalk was vandalized in Waterloo on Sunday. Barrie Live trackers await Santa Claus and his reindeer crew, special track underway in Simcoe County The spirit of Christmas is in the air as Santa Claus begins his lasting journey to deliver presents to children around the region. Third suspect arrested in Caledon peace officer assault A third person has been arrested after an assault in November. No parking on Barrie streets on Christmas Eve Barrie crews will work tonight to clear the snow from its streets. Winnipeg One person dead, another injured following Monday night house fire One person has died and another is in unstable condition following a house fire Monday evening. Winnipeg police investigating string of packages being stolen The Winnipeg Police Service is investigating a string of package thefts in the Transcona area. ‘Choosing your own adventure’: Winnipeg’s Select Start readies Exchange District for brand new ‘barcade’ experience A new ‘barcade’ in the heart of the Exchange District is hoping to be a successful launch title for a new generation of players. Calgary Three sent to hospital after Glenmore Trail crash Calgary police shut down Glenmore Trail overnight following a crash between a car and a crane truck. Person in critical condition after downtown Calgary fire A person was sent to hospital in life-threatening condition after a fire in downtown Calgary on Tuesday morning. Skier seriously injured in avalanche near Revelstoke, B.C. A skier was seriously injured after an avalanche near Revelstoke, B.C., over the weekend. Edmonton 'Serious safety issues': Edmonton building where security guard was killed evacuated An apartment building where a security guard was killed earlier this month has been evacuated. 1 charged after van stolen from Edmonton's Food Bank on Monday One person has been arrested after a van was stolen from Edmonton's Food Bank on Monday. Homelessness, rising property taxes major matters for Edmonton's mayor in 2024 Amarjeet Sohi looked back on the calendar year that's soon coming to a close with CTV News Edmonton, detailing recent challenges he and city council faced – typical year-end matters such as property taxes and finances – plus ongoing questions and efforts surrounding homelessness. Regina Sask. RCMP still searching for man suspected of small-town break-ins spanning years A man suspected of breaking into offices and small businesses across Saskatchewan over the past number of years has struck again – according to RCMP. 'A nice way to connect': Christmas card exchange between Sask. friends spans 60 years What started out as a little holiday fun between two Regina friends has turned into a tradition that now spans six decades. Dog lost in Saskatchewan during cross-country trip reunited with family A family moving from Ontario to Alberta in November had a scare when their family dog got loose during a stop in Dafoe, Sask. and ran away. Saskatoon 'People prop the doors open': Saskatoon resident concerned as people shelter in her stairwell With the number of homeless people in Saskatoon at an unprecedented high, it’s no surprise people are looking for places to warm up. Saskatoon-born comedian Brendan Flaherty returns to ask, 'what'd I miss?' As a Saskatoon-born comedian pursuing a career in the Six, Brendan Flaherty says he often hears the same question from friends back home. More drivers opt for personalized plates in Sask. — and behind every one there's a story You may have noticed a few more vanity plates on Saskatchewan roads in recent years, and every one of them comes with a personal story. Vancouver B.C. friends nab 'unbelievable' $1M lotto win just before Christmas Two friends from B.C's lower mainland are feeling particularly merry this December, after a single lottery ticket purchased from a small kiosk landed them instant millionaire status. Storms to continue rolling through B.C.'s South Coast over Christmas Day The tempestuous weather that descended on southern B.C. Monday afternoon will linger for the next few days, with a storm forecast for Christmas Day. Year-end interview: B.C. Premier David Eby reflects on nail-biting 2024 election It was a year that saw David Eby elected B.C. premier for the first time, and lead his party to government for a third consecutive term. Vancouver Island Year-end interview: B.C. Premier David Eby reflects on nail-biting 2024 election It was a year that saw David Eby elected B.C. premier for the first time, and lead his party to government for a third consecutive term. B.C. friends nab 'unbelievable' $1M lotto win just before Christmas Two friends from B.C's lower mainland are feeling particularly merry this December, after a single lottery ticket purchased from a small kiosk landed them instant millionaire status. B.C. woman sentenced for impaired driving crash that killed retired Mountie A Vancouver Island woman who was high on drugs when she crashed a car into a pickup truck, killing a retired Mountie and injuring his two passengers, "did not realize what was happening and took no steps to avoid the accident" a B.C. Supreme Court judge found. Kelowna Forfeited Hells Angels clubhouse in Kelowna, B.C., sold to the city A former Hells Angels clubhouse that was seized by the British Columbia government in 2023 after years of fighting in court has been sold to the City of Kelowna. Death of woman found in Kelowna's Waterfront Park in June deemed 'non-criminal in nature': RCMP Police in Kelowna say a death they began investigating back in June has now been confirmed as "non-criminal in nature." B.C. man sentenced for 'execution-style' murder of bystander in drug trade conflict A B.C. man convicted of the "intentional and ruthless killing of a bystander" while acting as an enforcer in the drug trade has been sentenced for a second time in the slaying. Stay Connected