
TD SYNNEX Co. (NYSE:SNX) Shares Sold by Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc.
Middle East latest: Israel agrees to a ceasefire with Hezbollah in Lebanon
Japan Strengthens Critical Minerals Cooperation With PeruNone
Complex shipbuilding projects demand efficient system integration and commissioning from suppliers to meet tight construction schedules. And Vard Electro has demonstrated its proven competence in this area with a debut delivery for the Ulstein Verft shipyard of integrated SeaQ Communication solutions for two advanced newbuild CSOVs now delivered by the Norwegian yard for Olympic. “The ability to see the bigger picture of such a system delivery is essential to overcome potential obstacles in the integration process and ensure efficient execution of a newbuilding project,” says Vard Electro’s Project Manager Fredrik Løken. “As such, we have benefited from being part of the Vard shipbuilding group as this has given us broad experience and strong expertise in installation and integration of diverse SeaQ systems delivered for scores of newbuilding projects. This means we understand the challenges as both a product supplier and system installer so we can provide a seamless implementation.” The initial delivery for Ulstein on the two construction service operation vessels (CSOVs), Olympic Boreas and Olympic Notos, to be deployed in the offshore energy sector has proven a prestigious project for Vard Electro that underpins its sustainability goal, while also launching a successful collaboration between yard and supplier. The ground-breaking newbuilds are the first CSOVs to employ Ulstein’s TWIN X-STERN® solution with four main propellers fore and aft to optimize the use of thruster power in dynamic positioning. This, together with hybrid diesel-electric propulsion, battery storage and smart energy management, has resulted in a reduction in fuel consumption of close to 50%, according to Olympic. Efficient system integration by Vard Electro contributed to the successful deliveries of the CSOVs Olympic Boreas (pictured) and Olympic Notos from Ulstein Verft. Photo: Ulstein The green profile of these vessels is supported by the SeaQ Communication package of robust information and communication technology (ICT) infrastructure geared to enhancing safety and operational efficiency, as well as the comfort of crews during prolonged stints at sea. Vard Electro has supplied a state-of-the-art ICT package for each vessel comprising communication, safety and crew welfare systems, including CCTV for security and navigation, internal voice communication system (VCS), public address and general alarm system (PAGA) and IPTV entertainment system, along with IT racks, networking and integration services. Løken points out that CCTV is vital for precise navigation, such as in port or between wind turbines, while emergency situations necessitate effective communications, both between crew members and over the PAGA system, to ensure the safety of personnel. Furthermore, IPTV contributes to a comfortable environment for crew during leisure time to ensure they can rest properly between shifts. The modular SeaQ Communication solutions are scalable and flexible so could be tailored to specific client and class requirements for the Olympic vessels, having been previously delivered by Vard Electro for more than 100 units, including several CSOVs, according to Løken. Vard Electro’s comprehensive knowledge of the entire scope of a newbuild, as well as relevant class standards and regulations, meant it was able to provide valuable input and assistance to Ulstein in the design and engineering phases to support system integration. Vard Electro’s Project Manager Fredrik Løken. Photo: Vard Electro. During construction and commissioning, its in-house electrical installation team could prioritize tasks, make necessary adaptations and effectively work around challenges, as well as co-ordinate with sub-suppliers for timely procurement of equipment. Furthermore, Vard Electro’s dedicated aftermarket division assists shipowners in the operational phase of a vessel by providing additional components for system upgrades, while service engineers involved in commissioning also perform ongoing maintenance to ensure continuity of expertise and support. “This initial collaboration with Ulstein has given us the opportunity to demonstrate Vard Electro is a trusted and reliable supplier able to deliver high-quality systems with efficient integration and commissioning that are vital to successful project execution throughout the newbuilding cycle. It has also contributed to strengthening the Norwegian maritime cluster,” Løken says. Vard Electro now aims to build on its positive relationship with Ulstein, as it also seeks to expand the scope of deliveries to external yards with broader integrations of the SeaQ suite of systems, covering power, bridge & navigation, control, communication and remote operations. Source: Vard
South Korea lifts president's martial law decree after lawmakers reject military ruleThe US says it pushed retraction of a famine warning for north Gaza. Aid groups express concern.
Crowsnest Pass vote shows 72% support Grassy Mountain coal mineOlder siblings everywhere could appreciate John Harbaugh's refusal to concede an inch against his younger brother Jim. Even when his Baltimore Ravens faced fourth down at their 16-yard line in the second quarter, John wasn't giving up the ball without a fight. The Ravens converted that fourth down and two others on their way to a 30-23 victory over the Los Angeles Chargers on Monday night, giving their coach a third victory in three matchups against his brother. It was the first time they'd faced off since Baltimore beat San Francisco — then coached by Jim Harbaugh — in the Super Bowl at the end of the 2012 season. “We grew up in the same room and have always lived our life side by side, but that’s not what the game is about,” John Harbaugh said. “The game really is about the players, and the players are always going to win the game or lose the game or whatever.” On this night, it was Baltimore's players who shined. Specifically Derrick Henry, who rushed for 140 yards. Lamar Jackson threw a couple of touchdown passes, and the defense was solid, allowing touchdowns on the first and last Los Angeles drives but not much in between. “I’m proud of our guys,” John Harbaugh said. “I’m proud of the way they came out and responded after the first 10 points — we were down 10-0, and our guys stepped up.” After converting fourth-and-1 at their 16 late in the second quarter, the Ravens scored on a 40-yard pass from Jackson to Rashod Bateman, taking the lead for good at 14-10. Baltimore's other two fourth-and-1 conversions came on a 14-play touchdown drive that spanned the end of the third quarter and start of the fourth. “We’re just confident that we’ll end up converting on those fourth downs, and we did a great job blocking,” said Henry, who converted the last two of the fourth downs. "All we had to do was make a play, and we did.” The Ravens got back to their identity a bit, rushing for 212 yards. And it wasn't just Henry and Jackson contributing. Justice Hill broke free for a 51-yard touchdown that made it 30-16 in the fourth. “Nobody wants to stand in front of (Derrick Henry) every single play, every single run,” Hill said. "You can do it one time, two times, three times, but when you have to do it 20 to 25 times, it starts to wear down. I’m glad we stuck with the run game this game, and it played out for us.” There were still too many penalties, with the Ravens flagged nine times for 102 yards. Baltimore played a pretty clean game until the fourth quarter, so several of those flags came after the Ravens had the game reasonably under control, but this is still an area of concern. With star linebacker Roquan Smith out because of a hamstring injury, Malik Harrison led the Ravens with a dozen tackles. “It’s a lot of people that doubted me coming into this game, so I’m happy I was able to ball out and show them that I can be in this league, and I can play at a high level,” Harrison said. There was a time when Isaiah Likely seemed as if he might be supplanting Mark Andrews as Baltimore's top tight end threat, but Likely went without a catch Monday. He did, however, recover the onside kick that effectively ended the game. Although Smith was out, DT Travis Jones (ankle) and C Tyler Linderbaum (back) were able to start. Jackson has now thrown 22 touchdown passes with no interceptions on Monday nights, with a passer rating of 124.3. The Ravens have one more game before their open date, and it's a showdown this weekend against a Philadelphia team that has won seven in a row. Saquon Barkley (1,392) of the Eagles and Henry (1,325) have both surpassed 1,300 yards rushing already. Nobody else in the NFL has more than 1,000. AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/nfl
UAE Ambassador to Korea Abdulla Saif Al Nuaimi delivers a speech during the 53rd National Day event in Seoul, Monday. Korea Times photo by Kim Hyun-bin By Kim Hyun-bin The United Arab Emirates (UAE) marked its 53rd National Day with a grand event in Seoul on Monday, where UAE Ambassador to Korea Abdulla Saif Al Nuaimi celebrated the nation's formation as a federation on Dec. 2, 1971. "We are here this evening to celebrate the 53rd Eid Al Etihad (Day of the Union) of the United Arab Emirates," began Al Nuaimi. "The event marks the establishment of the UAE as a united federation on the second of December 1971. On that day, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan was elected the first UAE president and the UAE national flag was officially raised in all parts of the country." The ambassador reflected on the UAE's accomplishments, highlighting significant progress both locally and globally. These achievements include support and diversification of the national economy and advancements in key sectors such as technology, space, clean energy and culture. The ambassador also discussed its "We the UAE 2031" vision, launched in November 2022, which aims to guide the UAE's development for the next decade. "Through this vision, the UAE aims to strengthen its position as an attractive and influential economic center. It also seeks to be a global hub for sustainable development and innovation," he explained. "The UAE is also a living example of tolerance, coexistence and multiculturalism. Coexistence is a fundamental pillar in the fabric of Emirati society. More than 200 nationalities from all over the world live in harmony in the UAE despite the diversity of their cultures." He proudly mentioned the UAE's improved ranking in the Global Soft Power Index, entering the list of the top 10 countries in 2022. Focusing on the UAE's relationship with Korea, Al Nuaimi remarked, "In its ties with the global community, the UAE seeks to build strategic partnerships with other countries that are beneficial to both sides." He pointed out the significant progress in bilateral ties, mentioning high-level mechanisms and exchanges to strengthen the two's "special strategic partnership." "During the state visit of His Excellency President Yoon Suk Yeol to the UAE in January 2023, the leaders of the two countries agreed to elevate this partnership to its highest level," Al Nuaimi said. "The recent state visit by our President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, to Seoul has played a significant role in expanding the areas of cooperation between the two sides." As the event concluded, Al Nuaimi expressed his gratitude to those who contributed to the strengthening of UAE-Korea relations. "As we celebrate the achievements made by UAE on this national occasion, we look forward to expanding the diversified partnerships between our two countries. I take this opportunity to express my gratitude to those who contributed to the strengthening of the relations between the UAE and the Republic of Korea," he said.
I’ve Achieved 90% Promises To Ekiti People, Oyebanji DeclaresLetter writers argue that physicians are key to solving the health care crisis and share their thoughts on the recent election.The injury bug comes for every team in the NHL, and the Buffalo Sabres are no exception. As they are currently without forward Jordan Greenway, defenseman Matias Samuelsson , and recently lost forward Sam Lafferty to injury during their overtime loss to the Vancouver Canucks, they had to make a minor league call-up to cover a roster spot. This time, instead of going with one of the bigger names like Isak Rosen , or possibly more typical call-ups like Brett Murray or Lukas Rousek , they went with a more-off-the-board choice in Tyson Kozak as he has been showing some outstanding signs of progress in his development. Considering where in the lineup the hole has been left, the need for someone like Kozak was prevalent, and he was the perfect choice for the Sabres to bring up to the big club. Kozak’s Journey to the NHL Kozak was selected by the Sabres in the seventh round of the 2021 NHL Draft, and at such a low pick, was not likely to make his way onto any pro roster in a short span of time. Kozak was a different type of player, however. As a hard-working, grinding, two-way style center with some outstanding playmaking capabilities, he worked his way into an entry-level contract with the Sabres the first time he was eligible, and was on their minor league affiliate Rochester Americans roster by the 2022-23 season. In his rookie year there he put up respectable scoring numbers as a bottom-six player, scoring five goals and five assists in 55 games, and then he followed that up in 2023-24 with five goals and seven assists in 41 games. This season he has been on an outstanding pace, having scored five goals already, and one assist in 14 games, and that has clearly caught the attention of general manager Kevyn Adams enough on top of the other skills that Kozak brings to the table to warrant a call-up. At a mere 21 years old, after being one of the last picks in his draft year, Kozak has proven that a player does not need to be a super-talented first-round pick to be called up to the NHL. They simply need to work hard and fill the need that their NHL club has, and he has that in spades. What Does Kozak Bring to the Table? Grit, hustle, determination, work ethic, and an ability to win draws are just some of the best qualities that Kozak brings to the lineup on a nightly basis for his team. He may not be a flashy player by any means, but in the simplicity of his game, there is something to love, and it very much suits the “Lindy Ruff style” of hockey that has been going on as of late. He is not afraid of throwing hits, getting involved physically in any play, driving down low into corners to make a play happen, going to the net to cause chaos, or even throwing punches if he has to. He is the ideal bottom-six forward in every capacity, and he has a lot of drive to prove himself. Everything that he does is a big reason why he was on my Sabres’ top prospects list from 2023-24 , and while he may not have made the list for 2024-25 he is making a huge case to be back on it. The Buffalo Sabres have recalled forward Tyson Kozak from the Rochester Americans (AHL). pic.twitter.com/s7Hp8vhuY2 With this being his first call-up, I do not expect the first-game jitters to weigh him down for long. He will make some mistakes and it will definitely take him a few shifts to adjust to the speed of the NHL, but once he has his bearings, Kozak will lock in quickly and be a healthy presence for the Sabres’ bottom six. Winning draws has been an issue for them all season long, so having him as an option to help there will do them nothing but good. If he draws into the lineup right away, the Sabres are taking a risk going with a rookie over the veteran healthy scratched Nicholas Aube-Kubel, but the risk is definitely worth the reward considering what Kozak can bring to this team, and how well he fits into the system. Kozak’s Call Up Won’t Be Long Term, but Future in Buffalo Should Be The minute that the Sabres have their usual forwards back healthy, Kozak will be sent back to Rochester, but giving him this shot now, and seeing how he stacks up against NHL competition while he is performing well in the minors is perfect. He is being rewarded for good play, and he is being shown where his future in the NHL will be as well, so he knows what will be expected of him when he arrives in the big leagues full-time. He is likely still a few years away from being a full-time NHL player, but getting him a few games this season is perfect for his development. He is the exact kind of player that can be homegrown into a fan favorite, just by the way that he plays the game. He is not going to wow anyone by scoring goals, but he is going to make fans love him by the way he shuts down opposing players and how he sticks up for his teammates. That is why getting him up and playing games now is crucial. The more he is involved, and the more he has the new culture ingrained into him, the better. As the team continues to evolve and grow, so will he, and that is only good for both the team and the player. Keep an eye on Kozak when he draws a spot in the lineup for the Sabres, as he has a lot to offer while this team tries to keep their playoff hopes alive. This article first appeared on The Hockey Writers and was syndicated with permission.
Krispy Kreme’s Minnesota Comeback
Gaetz withdraws as Trump's pick for attorney general, averting confirmation battle in the Senate WASHINGTON (AP) — Matt Gaetz has withdrawn as Donald Trump’s pick for attorney general following scrutiny over a federal sex trafficking investigation. The Florida Republican made the announcement Thursday. Gaetz’s withdrawal is a blow to Trump’s push to install steadfast loyalists in his incoming administration and the first sign that Trump could face resistance from members of his own party. Trump said in a social media post that Gaetz “did not want to be a distraction for the Administration.” Gaetz said “it is clear that my confirmation was unfairly becoming a distraction to the critical work" of the transition team. He added, “There is no time to waste on a needlessly protracted Washington scuffle.” Javascript is required for you to be able to read premium content. Please enable it in your browser settings. Get any of our free email newsletters — news headlines, obituaries, sports, and more.