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S&P/TSX composite down Monday, U.S. markets also move lowerRichard Parsons, one of corporate America's most prominent Black executives who held top posts at Time Warner and Citigroup, died Thursday. He was 76. Parsons, who died at his Manhattan home, was diagnosed with multiple myeloma in 2015 and cited "unanticipated complications" from the disease for cutting back on work a few years later. The financial services company Lazard, where Parsons was a longtime board member, confirmed his death. Parsons' friend Ronald Lauder told The New York Times that the cause of death was cancer. Parsons stepped down Dec. 3 from the boards of Lazard and Lauder's company, Estée Lauder, citing health reasons. He had been on Estée Lauder's board for 25 years. "Dick was an American original, a colossus bestriding the worlds of business, media, culture, philanthropy, and beyond," Ronald Lauder said in a statement on behalf of the Lauder family. David Zaslav, the CEO of Time Warner successor Warner Bros. Discovery, hailed Parsons as a "great mentor and friend" and a "tough and brilliant negotiator, always looking to create something where both sides win." "All who got a chance to work with him and know him saw that unusual combination of great leadership with integrity and kindness," Zaslav said, calling him "one of the great problem solvers this industry has ever seen." Parsons, a Brooklyn native who started college at 16, built a track record of steering big companies through tough times. He returned Citigroup to profitability after turmoil from the global financial crisis and helped restore Time Warner after its much-maligned acquisition by internet provider America Online. Parsons was named to the board of CBS in September 2018 but resigned a month later because of illness. Parsons said in a statement at the time that he was already dealing with multiple myeloma when he joined the board, but "unanticipated complications have created additional new challenges." He said his doctors advised him to cut back on his commitments to ensure recovery. "Dick's storied career embodied the finest traditions of American business leadership," Lazard said in a statement. The company, where Parsons was a board member from 2012 until this month, praised his "unmistakable intelligence and his irresistible warmth." "Dick was more than an iconic leader in Lazard's history — he was a testament to how wisdom, warmth, and unwavering judgment could shape not just companies, but people's lives," the company said. "His legacy lives on in the countless leaders he counseled, the institutions he renewed, and the doors he opened for others." Parsons was known as a skilled negotiator, a diplomat and a crisis manager. Although he was with Time Warner through its difficulties with AOL, he earned respect for the company and rebuilt its relations with Wall Street. He streamlined Time Warner's structure, pared debt and sold Warner Music Group and a book publishing division. He also fended off a challenge from activist investor Carl Icahn in 2006 to break up the company and helped Time Warner reach settlements with investors and regulators over questionable accounting practices at AOL. Parsons joined Time Warner as president in 1995 after serving as chairman and chief executive of Dime Bancorp Inc., one of the largest U.S. thrift institutions. In 2001, after AOL used its fortunes as the leading provider of Internet access in the U.S. to buy Time Warner for $106 billion in stock, Parsons became co-chief operating officer with AOL executive Robert Pittman. In that role, he was in charge of the company's content businesses, including movie studios and recorded music. He became CEO in 2002 with the retirement of Gerald Levin, one of the key architects of that merger. Parsons was named Time Warner chairman the following year, replacing AOL founder Steve Case, who had also championed the combination. The newly formed company's Internet division quickly became a drag on Time Warner. The promised synergies between traditional and new media never materialized. AOL began seeing a reduction in subscribers in 2002 as Americans replaced dial-up connections with broadband from cable TV and phone companies. Parsons stepped down as CEO in 2007 and as chairman in 2008. A year later AOL split from Time Warner and began trading as a separate company, following years of struggles to reinvent itself as a business focused on advertising and content. Time Warner is now owned by AT&T Inc. A board member of Citigroup and its predecessor, Citibank, since 1996, Parsons was named chairman in 2009 at a time of turmoil for the financial institution. Citigroup had suffered five straight quarters of losses and received $45 billion in government aid. Its board had been criticized for allowing the bank to invest so heavily in the risky housing market. Citigroup returned to profit under Parsons, starting in 2010, and would not have a quarterly loss again until the fourth quarter of 2017. Parsons retired from that job in 2012. In 2014 he stepped in as interim CEO of the NBA's Los Angeles Clippers until Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer took over later that year. "Dick Parsons was a brilliant and transformational leader and a giant of the media industry who led with integrity and never shied away from a challenge," NBA Commissioner Adam Silver said. Parsons, a Republican, previously worked as a lawyer for Nelson Rockefeller, a former Republican governor of New York, and in Gerald Ford's White House. Those early stints gave him grounding in politics and negotiations. He also was an economic adviser on President Barack Obama's transition team. Parsons, whose love of jazz led to co-owning a Harlem jazz club, also served as Chairman of the Apollo Theater and the Jazz Foundation of America. And he held positions on the boards of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, the American Museum of Natural History and the Museum of Modern Art in New York City. Parsons played basketball at the University of Hawaii at Manoa and received his law degree from Albany Law School in 1971. He is survived by his wife, Laura, and their family.
Canada, the United States, Sweden and Finland revealed the countries' full rosters for February's NHL 4 Nations Face-Off tournament this week. There were slam-dunk choices, surprises and snubs. The Canadian Press takes a looks at some of the talent that didn't make the cut. CONNOR BEDARD — CANADA The 19-year-old Chicago Blackhawks centre looked like a good bet to be included when the showcase event was first announced at the 2024 NHL all-star game. Bedard would go on to win the Calder Trophy as rookie of the year, but hit a bumpy patch in his second season. The No. 1 pick at the 2023 draft recently went 12 games without a goal, and has 19 points across 26 games. Bedard, however, still has a bright future with the national team. And remember, Sidney Crosby was left off the 2006 Olympic squad. EVAN BOUCHARD — CANADA The Edmonton Oilers defenceman had 81 points in 82 games last season before adding 32 more across 25 playoff contests. Those numbers, along with 18 points so far in 2024-25 entering Wednesday's action, weren't enough for the 25-year-old Bouchard to crack Canada's blue line. General manager Don Sweeney went with more well-rounded options in Josh Morrissey of the Winnipeg Jets and Travis Sanheim of the Philadelphia Flyers further down the lineup with offensive dynamo Cale Makar of the Colorado Avalanche likely tabbed with running what will be an ultra-talented power play. COLE CAUFIELD — UNITED STATES The Montreal Canadiens sniper — one of hockey's purest shooters — has 16 goals in 25 games, but was unable to crack a stacked American setup. The deep roster likely didn't have room for Caufield, 23, in an offensive role, and defensive play is far from the winger's strong suit. WILLIAM EKLUND — SWEDEN The 22-year-old San Jose Sharks forward appeared a lock after putting up 23 points through 27 games this season. Sweden, however, decided on a more veteran group that included Oilers forward Viktor Arvidsson and Nashville Predators counterpart Gustav Nyquist, leaving a dynamic offensive player on the outside looking in. ZACH HYMAN — CANADA Bouchard's teammate in Edmonton will also have to watch the 4 Nations. The grinding, 32-year-old winger combined to score 70 goals in 2023-24 — 54 in the regular season and 16 in the playoffs — playing alongside Connor McDavid with the Oilers. But the familiarity of suiting up on the Canadian superstar's wing couldn't propel Hyman onto the roster. And with just three goals this season, Sweeney looked elsewhere. MARK SCHEIFELE — CANADA The 31-year-old centre for the Winnipeg Jets has 13 goals and 27 points in 26 games in 2024-25, but that wasn't enough to earn him a spot. Scheifele was unlikely to play in an offensive role, and he's never been known for his defensive acumen. Canada instead went with the likes of Tampa Bay Lightning forward Anthony Cirelli to fill out its down-the-middle needs. TAGE THOMPSON — UNITED STATES The Buffalo Sabres centre was a surprise omission from the American fold. The hulking six-foot-six centre has 20 points in 20 games this season, and scored 47 times back in 2022-23. But much like Caufield, there just didn't appear to be room for Thompson in a role where he would succeed. The U.S. instead went with Brock Nelson of the New York Islanders and Vincent Trocheck of the New York Rangers to top off its forward group. This report by The Canadian Press was first published Dec. 5, 2024. Joshua Clipperton, The Canadian PressMinisters warned of cuts as ‘every pound’ of spending to face review
Bravo’s announcement Tuesday (Nov. 26) that Vanderpump Rules is relaunching with a new cast of SURvers may not have been “Good as Gold” news for longtime viewers, but Scheana Shay — one of the hit show’s OG stars — has her focus on a passion project: her upcoming EP with The 27s. And believe it or not, pop superstar Taylor Swift had some part in the inspiration. “What I wanted to do with this EP was each song is kind of — and this is my Taylor Swift inspo — is a different era of Scheana,” the singer and TV personality, who attended the Eras Tour, tells Billboard . “So you have the ‘Apples’ Scandoval era, you have the ‘Boy Crazy’ era, ‘Sweet & Sour’ is like the mean girl, the early Vanderpump Rules era, and the next single I have is called ‘Miss Understood.’ So that is just a combination of 11 years on reality TV feeling like I’ve been a little misunderstood! But it’s a really good song. That one is a little more poppy, and then we have a couple more that are definitely more rock.” And like Swift, Shay — who has her own NFL ties via hosting some of Smirnoff’s We Do Game Day Matchups, with her next one being Dec. 5 in Detroit — will also be doing at least one other new take (Scheana’s Version, if you will) of her own tunes. “We’re doing a stripped-down version of ‘Apples.’ It’s just gonna be a more acoustic vibe, slower,” the Scheananigans podcast host shares of the bop that originally arrived in August 2023. The tune was inspired by co-star Tom Sandoval’s affair with their friend Rachel Leviss (dubbed “Scandoval” for its betrayal of fan-favorite castmate Ariana Madix, Sandoval’s partner of nearly 10 years and one of Leviss’ closest friends), which Shay performed during the VPR season 11 finale. “That’s the only one we’re really redoing. We already did the Screamo Version of ‘Good as Gold,’ but I’m really excited.” Though Shay wasn’t sure about the future of the hit Bravo reality show when she spoke to Billboard , she said at the time that she was in no major rush to get the EP out, hoping that this would give VPR the chance to document her artistic process, which the show has done in past seasons. “I would love for at least, if it’s not me in the recording booth, that when we do the release, that that’s captured in some way,” she says of her ideal scenario. “And if it’s not on Vanderpump Rules , it would be on my YouTube channel, and I’ll vlog everything that doesn’t get shown on the show.” The TV personality adds that she and The 27s have already mastered “a couple songs,” and that the new single would be out before the EP arrives. “It’s such a good song that I don’t want to release it without a visual aspect, so just figuring out if we’re gonna do a full music video for that ... but it will be coming soon, at least that single,” she shares. “And then I would love to have the EP out before the end of the year.” But if a new single and EP aren’t enough to fulfill fans’ appetites, Shay teased that there may be something else on the way for VPR devotees: a collab with co-stars Lala Kent and Ally Lewber. “Lala and I, we actually talked about doing a song with Ally!” reveals the podcaster, who shares daughter Summer Moon with husband Brock Davies. “It might be more of like a children’s song, but I recently recorded a song with Station Little, and they do a bunch of pop inspiring music for kids. ... We were thinking about it, and we’re like, ‘Wouldn’t it be fun if the three of us did something together?’ Maybe around the holidays, which I know is approaching quickly, so we would need to figure that out soon, but we have talked about the three of us partnering with Station Little and doing something for the kids! I’m in my mom era!” Though pop music and parenting are in the influencer’s wheelhouse, she hopes to step outside the box with her music too. “I would love to collaborate with a legend like Dr. Dre, Eminem, where I’m just on the hook and they’re doing their thing they do. They’re so talented!” she gushed of the hip-hop icons. “Snoop Dogg, maybe Drake, but definitely more on the hip-hop side if I was going to do a collab. I feel like people would expect me to say, like, Britney Spears or something pop or Gwen Stefani. No! Put me in the studio with Dr. Dre and I would be a very happy girl!”
4v4v4 tactical shooter Alara Prime announces early 2025 alpha playtestMIAMI, FL — Traffic citations issued to Miami Dolphins star wide receiver Tyreek Hill after a September altercation with police have been dismissed after the charging officers didn't attend a court hearing. Hill's tickets for careless driving and failing to wear a seat belt were dismissed after the Miami-Dade Police officers failed to show up for a Monday hearing. The tickets were issued after Hill was stopped outside Hard Rock Stadium for allegedly speeding before the Dolphins' season opener on Sept. 8. The stop escalated and an officer pulled Hill from the car, forced him to the ground and handcuffed him. Hill said in a Tuesday post on the social platform X , “Where all the internet cops now”. Do you have a concern in your community or a news tip? We want to hear from you! Connect with us: share@abc15.com Facebook | Instagram | YouTube The Miami-Dade Police said the officers' failure to appear was “an oversight” and “the matter will be handled administratively.” Still, the department defended issuing Hill the tickets. “A citation dismissed due to this reason does not indicate that the citation held no merit,” the agency said in a statement. Police body camera video from the September stop showed Hill appeared to speed past two motorcycle officers who were monitoring traffic on a road outside the stadium. They pulled over his McLaren sports car and one tapped on his window. Hill, 30, handed the officer his driver's license, but told the officer repeatedly, “Don’t knock on my window like that." He then put his window back up. Their verbal exchange escalated and the officers soon pulled him from the car, forcing Hill face-first to the ground. The officers cursed at Hill but he did not resist their physical force or strike at them in the video. He did tell one officer, “Don’t tell me what to do.” Hill was eventually stood up, but then an officer dragged him into a sitting position on the curb after he said a knee injury made that difficult. After about 30 minutes, Hill was issued citations and allowed to enter the stadium. One officer was placed on administrative duty and an internal affairs investigation was launched. No results have been released. Latest from ABC15: Eloy firefighter arrested for producing and distributing child pornography abc15.com staff Suspect wanted by Phoenix PD stopped while fleeing authorities along I-10 abc15.com staff Israeli cabinet approves ceasefire deal between Israel and Hezbollah Jordana Miller, ABC News What happens when a Waymo gets confused? Melissa Blasius
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Estes Rockets Partners with SpaceX to Launch 1:100 Scale Model of the Iconic Falcon 9 Rocket available for Holiday 2024 Estes & SpaceX Estes Falcon 9 model rocket. The SpaceX Falcon 9 is the world's first human-rated, reusable launch vehicle, renowned for its capability to lift payloads to Low Earth Orbit (LEO), geosynchronous orbits, and even to Mars. This model, crafted with precision and authenticity, offers hobbyists a chance to celebrate this engineering marvel. The Estes 1:100 scale Falcon 9 model is not only a striking display piece on its custom stand but also a fully functional flying rocket. When paired with recommended Estes engines, the Falcon 9 can soar to altitudes of up to 300 feet, delivering an unparalleled launch experience. "This collaboration with SpaceX is a monumental moment for Estes Rockets,” said Mallory Langford, President of Estes Rockets. "The Falcon 9 represents a giant leap in space technology, and we're thrilled to provide space enthusiasts with an opportunity to engage with this iconic rocket on a personal level.” Key Features of the Estes Falcon 9 Model: • 1:100 Scale Accuracy: A meticulously detailed replica of the Falcon 9 topped with the Dragon Crew spacecraft. • The SpaceX Falcon 9 model rocket's display box is a masterpiece of design, featuring sleek, Space X silver logo, custom foam insert that secures and protects the model and showcases the rocket's iconic design, capturing the awe and innovation of modern rocketry. • Dynamic Functionality: Capable of flying up to 300 feet on Estes rocket engines. • Custom Display Stand: A perfect centerpiece for collectors and fans of space exploration. The Estes Falcon 9 model exemplifies the spirit of innovation and discovery, serving as a gateway for educators to inspire the next generation of STEM learners while celebrating SpaceX's achievements in modern rocketry. The Estes 1:100 scale Falcon 9 is now available on Estes Rocket website. For more information, visit www.estesrockets.com About Estes Rockets For over 65 years, Estes Rockets has been the leader in the hobby rocketry industry, inspiring generations of engineers, scientists, and space enthusiasts. With a commitment to innovation and quality, Estes continues to ignite a passion for discovery and exploration. About SpaceX SpaceX designs, manufactures, and launches advanced rockets and spacecraft. The company was founded with the ultimate goal of enabling people to live on other planets, pushing the boundaries of space exploration and technology. Attachment Estes & SpaceX CONTACT: Heidi Muckenthaler Estes Industries 7193729870 [email protected]
Illinois Department of Human Services employees have worked excessive overtime — with one worker more than tripling an annual salary of $66,000 — which could have an adverse effect on people in the department’s care, a state audit released earlier this month found. The Dec. 4 report from Illinois Auditor General Frank Mautino’s office, which covered fiscal years 2021 through 2023, also found that misconduct allegations within IDHS have increased and that the department’s inspector general’s office has been slower to investigate complaints. The report lays out the latest problems for an agency still dealing with fallout from accusations that a downstate mental health center repeatedly covered up staff misconduct amid allegations of abuse and neglect of residents. The report noted that due to a high number of allegations, it’s likely that many of the same issues documented at Choate Mental Health and Developmental Center in Anna exist at other centers. The overtime issues detailed in the report are eye-opening. In fiscal year 2023, IDHS reported that 70% of the more than 7,200 employees at its state-operated facilities had overtime that accumulated a total of 1,606,962 hours. Of those, 330 employees tallied more than 1,000 hours in OT, the audit found. • A worker at the Ludeman Development Center in Park Forest with an annual pay rate of $66,000 logged 3,331 hours in overtime during the fiscal year and collected $227,800 in gross pay during the calendar year, the audit found. • Another employee who worked at the Elgin Mental Health Center tallied 2,745 of the extra hours and had gross pay of $203,700, well above their calendar year pay rate of $68,400. • At the Alton Mental Health Center, a $57,600-a-year employee was paid for 2,122 hours of overtime, receiving gross pay of $144,600. The auditor general’s office noted that the hours of overtime reported do not necessarily reflect the amount of overtime worked. One reason for that is that there are different rates of overtime pay for holidays. Another is that an employee with seniority can file a grievance after not being offered an overtime shift, and, if successful, collect the extra money without having worked the shift. “However, even when taking these instances into consideration, the amount of overtime being worked by State-operated facility employees appears excessive,” Mautino’s office wrote. The report noted that beyond the fiscal implications, having employees work so many additional hours can have adverse consequences for people in IDHS care. “Multiple academic studies have found that excessive amounts of overtime can have a detrimental effect on the care provided to residents or patients, as well as the health care workers providing the care,” Mautino’s office said. The report also found allegations of wrongdoing within the department, including those involving its mental health and developmental centers and as well as community agencies, have climbed since the COVID-19 pandemic began, and that the department’s inspector general has been taking longer to investigate those claims. The IDHS inspector general’s office received 3,281 allegations during fiscal year 2023 compared with 2,423 in fiscal year 2021, which at that time was the lowest in a decade. But during fiscal year 2023, the watchdog took an average of 205 calendar days to investigate cases, an increase of 25 days during the 2020 fiscal year, according to Mautino’s office. Along with the rise in complaints, there was a slowdown in the time it took the department’s inspector general’s office to complete investigations, the audit found. In fiscal year 2023, only 22% of the IDHS watchdog’s cases were completed within 60 calendar days, an 8% drop from fiscal year 2020 — which covered part of the prior audit of the watchdog — and a 14% decrease when compared with both fiscal years 2021 and 2022, Mautino’s office found. The auditor general also found the IDHS inspector general’s office was slow to fill open positions. From fiscal years 2021 through 2023, the watchdog requested to hire for 38 positions, but as of mid-August 2023, 17 had been filled and 21 were vacant. “(IDHS watchdog) officials stated that multiple bureaus have lost headcount; if there is a lack of investigators, then timeliness worsens and caseloads increase,” Mautino’s office wrote. “According to (IDHS watchdog officials), they are unable to hire investigators fast enough to maintain their headcount.” The audit also addressed the IDHS inspector general’s office’s Quality Care Board, which is supposed to monitor the watchdog to ensure investigations of abuse and neglect are handled properly. The board is supposed to have seven members, appointed by the governor with consent of the Senate, with two of them being a person with a disability or a parent of someone disabled. According to Mautino’s office, the board did not have the required seven members during the audit period and two members were serving on expired terms. “The Board cannot fully function as directed by statute to ‘monitor and oversee the operations, policies, and procedures of the Inspector General with vacancies and neglected membership requirements,” Mautino’s office wrote. Mautino’s office noted an IDHS watchdog directive requiring that office to interview a “complainant and/or required reporter and the victim and/or guardian” within 15 working days of case assignment. But in five of 39 investigations sampled by the auditor that included a victim who was verbal, it took anywhere from 24 to 536 working days to complete the interview. “Conducting interviews quickly is essential in conducting effective investigations. As time passes, victims who have a developmental disability or mental illness may be more likely to forget what happened or be unable to recount what happened accurately,” Mautino’s office wrote. The audit recommended that IDHS ensure all employees at state-operated facilities receive training in prevention and “reporting of abuse, neglect and exploitation” as required by policies and state law. IDHS and its watchdog should work together to identify and resolve bottlenecks in the hiring process and address pay structure imbalances for management positions, Mautino’s office also said. The office also said IDHS should conduct a staffing analysis to determine if staffing levels at the state-run facilities are appropriate. “The staffing analysis should take into consideration the need to reduce excessive amounts of employee overtime, especially for direct care employees,” according to Mautino’s office. In a response to the findings that was included in the audit, IDHS said it’s in the process of reviewing staffing levels at its facilities and noted it has worked to implement changes to the collective bargaining agreements to expedite hiring for certain positions. The agency acknowledged being challenged by retirement and retention issues. The IDHS watchdog, meanwhile, said it has worked closely with IDHS to increase headcount and is in the process of “substantial additional hiring.” “However, it will take time for the new hires to make a noticeable impact on timeliness, as training takes time and significant effort from supervisory staff,” IDHS said, according to Mautino’s office. “(The IDHS watchdog) continuously reviews processes for timeliness improvements and training opportunities.” IDHS also pointed to how its bureau of hotline and intake has seen “a severe shortage” in intake investigators and bureau management due to retirements and significant delays in the hiring process. The agency also acknowledged how staff shortages result in growing backlogs that further affect the ability of the IDHS watchdog to investigate complaints quickly. “Unfortunately, the ongoing staff shortage has persisted as overall calls, including reportable and non-reportable calls, have increased,” IDHS said, according to Mautino’s report. “As of October 2024, (the IDHS watchdog) has six intake investigators, and five unfilled intake investigator positions that are in various stages of the hiring process.” The IDHS watchdog expects an upcoming change in technology will help the inspector general’s office provide better oversight. Next year, for instance, the watchdog will have a new case management system designed to better track and document when an investigator is unable to reach a victim or complainant within the required timeframes. In a statement, IDHS and its inspector general’s office said it accepted the audit’s findings and is “working to implement changes, including the hiring of staff to ensure appropriate staffing levels across all of our programs and offices.” Separately, IDHS last week said it experienced a privacy breach in April when an outside entity, through a phishing campaign, gained access to files that included the Social Security numbers of more than 4,700 customers and three employees. In addition, public assistance account information was accessed for more than a million customers, though that information did not include Social Security numbers. “Upon learning of the phishing incident, IDHS worked in partnership with (the Illinois Department of Innovation and Technology) to investigate the extent of the breach and to determine which individuals were included,” IDHS said in a statement.SAN FRANCISCO, Dec. 27, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- AstraZeneca, the Anglo-Swedish pharmaceutical giant, has seen its stock price tumble 15 percent over the past six months, buffeted by a series of unsettling reports emanating from China. A widening investigation by China regulators into alleged illegal drug imports, data breaches, and potential health insurance fraud has cast a shadow over the company’s prospects in a critical market, triggering a securities class action lawsuit in the United States. Hagens Berman has opened an investigation into the allegations and urges investors in AstraZeneca American Depositary Shares who suffered substantial losses to submit your losses now. Class Period: Feb. 23, 2022 – Dec. 17, 2024 Lead Plaintiff Deadline: Feb. 21, 2025 Visit: www.hbsslaw.com/investor-fraud/azn Contact the Firm Now: AZN@hbsslaw.com 844-916-0895 Probe Into AstraZeneca’s China Operations The probe conducted by China regulators, which reportedly centers on allegations that AstraZeneca employees improperly imported cancer medications like Enhertu and Imjudo from Hong Kong into mainland China and mishandled patient data, has been compounded by a broader investigation into a large-scale health insurance fraud case. The confluence of these issues has raised serious concerns among investors about the potential impact on the company’s regional sales and overall financial performance. The situation escalated with the arrest of Leon Wang, AstraZeneca’s Executive Vice President International and China President. This development, coupled with internal forecasts predicting a downturn in sales within the Chinese market, has prompted a sharp investor reaction, culminating in the legal action filed in the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California. The AstraZeneca Securities Class Action Suit The lawsuit alleges that AstraZeneca issued “false and misleading statements” and withheld crucial information regarding the company’s exposure to legal and regulatory risks in China. The complaint specifically accuses AstraZeneca of engaging in insurance fraud, facing heightened legal exposure that led to Mr. Wang’s detention, understating the risks associated with its Chinese operations, and failing to disclose the potential for these issues to significantly harm its business and finances in the region. The truth allegedly began to emerge in late October. On October 30, AstraZeneca announced that Mr. Wang was cooperating with a Chinese investigation, offering few details. This initial announcement triggered a 3 percent drop in the company’s share price. The situation worsened on November 5, when Yicai , a Chinese business news outlet, reported that dozens of AstraZeneca China executives were implicated in the investigation, with some potentially facing lengthy prison sentences. The report, citing an industry insider, attributed the alleged compliance issues to “extreme pressure” on sales representatives to meet aggressive sales targets. This news sent AstraZeneca’s stock down another 7 percent. On November 12, AstraZeneca confirmed Mr. Wang’s detention and disclosed that the Chinese investigation encompassed allegations of medical insurance fraud, illegal drug importation, and breaches of personal information. More recently, on December 18, The Financial Times reported that AstraZeneca executives anticipate a decline in Chinese revenue due to the arrests of Mr. Wang and other senior executives. The report quoted an AstraZeneca executive who stated that “doctors are unwilling to interact with our salespeople and prescribe our medicines” following the investigation, precipitating a further nearly 4 percent decline in the company’s share price. Hagens Berman Investigation These events have prompted shareholder rights firm to open an investigation in the allegations. “Should the allegations be confirmed, it suggests AstraZeneca misled investors about the true extent of its exposure in China, a failure with potentially serious consequences,” said Reed Kathrein, an attorney leading the firm's investigation. If you invested in AstraZeneca and have substantial losses, or have knowledge that may assist the firm’s investigation, submit your losses now » If you’d like more information and answers to frequently asked questions about the AstraZeneca investigation, read more » Whistleblowers: Persons with non-public information regarding AstraZeneca should consider their options to help in the investigation or take advantage of the SEC Whistleblower program. Under the new program, whistleblowers who provide original information may receive rewards totaling up to 30 percent of any successful recovery made by the SEC. For more information, call Reed Kathrein at 844-916-0895 or email AZN@hbsslaw.com . About Hagens Berman Hagens Berman is a global plaintiffs’ rights complex litigation firm focusing on corporate accountability. The firm is home to a robust practice and represents investors as well as whistleblowers, workers, consumers and others in cases achieving real results for those harmed by corporate negligence and other wrongdoings. Hagens Berman’s team has secured more than $2.9 billion in this area of law. More about the firm and its successes can be found at hbsslaw.com . Follow the firm for updates and news at @ClassActionLaw . Contact: Reed Kathrein, 844-916-0895
The New York Knicks haven’t received consistent production from the bench, but a particular signing could help the organization fix their second unit woes. In a wise present and future-driven move , the Knicks could bring back a veteran long-range sniper to help give them a spark off the bench. “Looking ahead, sharpshooter Landry Shamet is expected to be re-signed by the Knicks when he’s healthy, with the hope that stretch forward Matt Ryan will then clear waivers and re-sign on a two-way contract,” HoopsHype’s Michael Scotto wrote Monday. Shamet, a 2018 first-round pick, suited up for the Washington Wizards during the 2023-24 season. The Wichita State product averaged 7.1 points on 33.8% shooting from beyond the arc in 46 contests, which didn’t earn him another contract with the organization. Shamet found a new NBA home in October, signing a non-guaranteed training camp deal with the Knicks. The 38.4% career three-point shooter struggled to find his touch from deep during the preseason, but he netted 43 total points in four contests. Unfortunately, Shamet dislocated his shoulder during the Knicks’ final preseason game against the Charlotte Hornets, which compelled the franchise to waive him before New York’s season opener. If Shamet wishes to rejoin the Knicks this season, he must improve his health and return to his scorching ways from three-point land. With New York looking to exit laughingstock territory regarding their bench scoring, they may give Shamet another opportunity to prove he belongs in the big leagues. More NBA: Lakers could hit jackpot by acquiring $242 million trio in multi-team tradeISLAMABAD (AP) — Pakistani security forces launched an operation Tuesday night to disperse supporters of imprisoned former Prime Minister Imran Khan who had gathered in the capital to demand his release from prison. The latest development came hours after thousands of Khan supporters, defying government warnings, broke through a barrier of shipping containers blocking off Islamabad and entered a high-security zone, where they clashed with security forces, facing tear gas shelling, mass detentions and gunfire. Tension has been high in Islamabad since Sunday when supporters of the former prime minister began a “long march” from the restive northwest to demand his release. Khan has been in a prison for over a year and faces more than 150 criminal cases that his party says are politically motivated. Khan’s wife, Bushra Bibi, led the protest, but she fled as police pushed back against demonstrators. Hundreds of Khan’s supporters are being arrested in the ongoing nighttime operation, and police are also seeking to arrest Bibi. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi told reporters that the Red Zone, which houses government buildings and embassies, and the surrounding areas have been cleared. Leaders from Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party, or PTI, have also fled the protest site. Earlier Tuesday, Pakistan’s army took control of D-Chowk, a large square in the Red Zone, where visiting Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko is staying. Since Monday, Naqvi had threatened that security forces would use live fire if protesters fired weapons at them. “We have now authorized the police to respond as necessary,” Naqvi said Tuesday while visiting the square. Before the operation began, protester Shahzor Ali said people had taken to the streets because Khan had called for them. “We will stay here until Khan joins us. He will decide what to do next,” Ali said. “If they fire bullets again, we will respond with bullets,” he said. Protester Fareeda Bibi, who is not related to Khan’s wife, said people have suffered greatly for the last two years. “We have really suffered for the last two years, whether it is economically, politically or socially. We have been ruined. I have not seen such a Pakistan in my life,” she said. Authorities have struggled to contain the protest-related violence. Six people, including four members of the security services, were killed when a vehicle rammed them on a street overnight into Tuesday. A police officer died in a separate incident. Dozens of Khan supporters beat a videographer covering the protest for The Associated Press and took his camera. He sustained head injuries and was treated in a hospital. By Tuesday afternoon, fresh waves of protesters made their way unopposed to their final destination in the Red Zone. Most demonstrators had the flag of Khan’s party around their shoulders or wore its tricolors on accessories. Naqvi said Khan’s party had rejected a government offer to rally on the outskirts of the city. Information Minister Atta Tarar warned there would be a severe government reaction to the violence. He said the government did not want Bushra Bibi to achieve her goal of freeing Khan. “She wants bodies falling to the ground. She wants bloodshed,” he said. The government says only the courts can order Khan’s release. He was ousted in 2022 through a no-confidence vote in Parliament. In a bid to foil the unrest, police have arrested more than 4,000 Khan supporters since Friday and suspended mobile and internet services in some parts of the country. Messaging platforms were also experiencing severe disruption in the capital. Khan’s party relies heavily on social media and uses messaging platforms such as WhatsApp to share information, including details of events. The X platform, which is banned in Pakistan, is no longer accessible, even with a VPN. Last Thursday, a court prohibited rallies in the capital and Naqvi said anyone violating the ban would be arrested. Travel between Islamabad and other cities has become nearly impossible because of shipping containers blocking the roads. All education institutions remain closed. Pakistan's Stock Exchange lost more than $1.7 billion Tuesday due to rising political tensions, according to economist Mohammed Sohail from Topline Securities. Associated Press writers Munir Ahmed in Islamabad and Asim Tanveer in Multan, Pakistan, contributed to this report.The cafe owner, the fund manager and the $35 million windfall
Berlin confirmed plans to reform its legal framework make it a clear criminal offence to “facilitate the smuggling of migrants to the UK” as part of the agreement, the Home Office said. The Home Office said the move would give German prosecutors more tools to tackle the supply and storage of dangerous small boats. Both countries will also commit to exchange information that may help to remove migrant-smuggling content from social media platforms and tackle end-to-end routes of criminal smuggling networks as part of the deal. It comes ahead of the UK and Germany hosting the so-called Calais Group in London, which sees ministers and police from the two countries, alongside France, Belgium and the Netherlands, gather to discuss migration in Europe. Delegates are expected to agree a detailed plan to tackle people-smuggling gangs in 2025 at the meeting on Tuesday. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said: “For too long organised criminal gangs have been exploiting vulnerable people, undermining border security in the UK and across Europe while putting thousands of lives at risk. “We are clear that this cannot go on. “Germany is already a key partner in our efforts to crack down on migrant smuggling, but there is always more we can do together. “Our new joint action plan with deliver a strengthened partnership with Germany, boosting our respective border security as we work to fix the foundations, and ultimately saving lives.” Nancy Faeser, German federal minister of the interior said: “We are now stepping up our joint action to fight the brutal activities of international smugglers. “This is at the core of our joint action plan that we have agreed in London. “I am very grateful to my British counterpart Yvette Cooper that we were able to reach this important agreement. “It will help us end the inhumane activities of criminal migrant smuggling organisations. “By cramming people into inflatable boats under threats of violence and sending them across the Channel, these organisations put human lives at risk. “Many of these crimes are planned in Germany. “Together, we are now countering this unscrupulous business with even more resolve. “This includes maintaining a high investigative pressure, exchanging information between our security authorities as best as possible, and persistently investigating financial flows to identify the criminals operating behind the scenes.”Russia shares higher at close of trade; MOEX Russia Index up 1.39%I Tried the $299 Feno Smartbrush to Clean My Teeth. It's a Whole New Vibration
Health centre gets ₹25L new machineChess grandmaster Magnus Carlsen returns to a tournament after a dispute over jeans is resolved NEW YORK (AP) — Top ranked chess player Magnus Carlsen is headed back to the World Blitz Championship on Monday. That's after its governing body agreed to loosen a dress code that got him fined and denied a late-round game in another tournament for refusing to change out of jeans. The International Chess Federation president said in a statement Sunday that he’d let World Blitz Championship tournament officials consider allowing “appropriate jeans” with a jacket, as well as other "minor deviations” from the dress code. Carlsen quit the World Rapid and Blitz Chess Championships on Friday. He said Sunday he would play — and wear jeans — in the World Blitz Championship. 'Sonic 3' and 'Mufasa' battle for No. 1 at the holiday box office Two family films are dominating the holiday box office, with “Sonic the Hedgehog 3” winning the three-day weekend over “Mufasa” by a blue hair. According to studio estimates Sunday, the Sonic movie earned $38 million, while “Mufasa” brought in $37.1 million from theaters in the U.S. and Canada. The R-rated horror “Nosferatu” placed third with an unexpectedly strong $21.2 million. Thanksgiving release holdovers “Wicked” and “Moana 2” rounded out the top five. Christmas Day had several big film openings, including the Bob Dylan biopic “A Complete Unknown,” the Nicole Kidman erotic drama “Babygirl” and the boxing drama “The Fire Inside.” Charles Shyer, ‘Father of the Bride’ and ‘Baby Boom’ filmmaker, dies at 83 An Oscar-nominated writer and filmmaker known for classic comedies like “Private Benjamin,” “Baby Boom” and “Father of the Bride," Charles Shyer has died. He was 83. On Sunday his daughter Hallie Meyers-Shyer told The Associated Press that he died Friday in Los Angeles. No cause was disclosed. Born in Los Angeles in 1941 to a filmmaker father, Shyer's big breakthrough came with co-writing “Private Benjamin” for which he and Nancy Meyers received an Oscar nomination. He and Nancy Meyers were frequent collaborators through their nearly 20-year marriage, including on the remake of “The Parent Trap," starring Lindsay Lohan. LeBron James at 40: A milestone birthday arrives Monday for the NBA's all-time scoring leader When LeBron James broke another NBA record earlier this month, the one for most regular-season minutes played in a career, his Los Angeles Lakers teammates handled the moment in typical locker room fashion. They made fun of him. Dubbed The Kid from Akron, with a limitless future, James is now the 40-year-old from Los Angeles with wisps of gray in his beard, his milestone birthday coming Monday, one that will make him the first player in NBA history to play in his teens, 20s, 30s and 40s. He has stood and excelled in the spotlight his entire career. Belgium will ban sales of disposable e-cigarettes in a first for the EU BRUSSELS (AP) — Belgium will ban the sale of disposable electronic cigarettes as of Jan. 1 on health and environmental grounds in a groundbreaking move for European Union nations. Health minister Frank Vandenbroucke tells The Associated Press that the inexpensive e-cigarettes have turned into a health threat since they are an easy way for teenagers to be drawn into smoking and get hooked on nicotine. Australia outlawed the sale of “vapes” outside pharmacies earlier this year in some of the world’s toughest restrictions on electronic cigarettes. Now Belgium is leading the EU drive. Belgium's minister wants tougher tobacco measures in the 27-nation bloc. Charles Dolan, HBO and Cablevision founder, dies at 98 Charles F. Dolan, who founded some of the most prominent U.S. media companies including Home Box Office Inc. and Cablevision Systems Corp., has died at age 98. Newsday reports that a statement issued Saturday by his family says Dolan died of natural causes. Dolan’s legacy in cable broadcasting includes founding HBO in 1972, Cablevision in 1973 and the American Movie Classics television station in 1984. He also launched News 12 in New York City, the first U.S. 24-hour cable channel for local news. Dolan also held controlling stakes in companies that owned Madison Square Garden, Radio City Music Hall, the New York Knicks and the New York Rangers. Snoop's game: Snoop Dogg thrills the crowd in the bowl that bears his name TUCSON, Ariz. (AP) — Miami of Ohio beat Colorado State in the Arizona Bowl, but Snoop Dogg was the main attraction. The Snoop Dogg Arizona Bowl presented by Gin & Juice by Dre and Snoop was much a spectacle as a football game. Snoop Dogg seemed to be everywhere all at once, from a pregame tailgate to the postgame trophy presentation. Snoop Dog donned a headset on Colorado State's sideline, spent some time in the broadcast and even led both marching bands as conductor during their halftime performance. Snoop Dogg saved the best for last, rolling out in a light green, lowrider Chevy Impala with gold rims and accents, the shiny Arizona Bowl trophy in his hand as fans screamed his name. Mavs star Luka Doncic is latest pro athlete whose home was burglarized, business manager says DALLAS (AP) — Luka Doncic of the Dallas Mavericks is the latest professional athlete whose home has been burglarized. The star guard’s business manager tells multiple media outlets there was a break-in at Doncic’s home Friday night. Lara Beth Seager says nobody was home, and Doncic filed a police report. The Dallas Morning News reports that jewelry valued at about $30,000 was stolen. Doncic is the sixth known pro athlete in the U.S. whose home was burglarized since October. Star NFL quarterbacks Patrick Mahomes of Kansas City and Joe Burrow of Cincinnati are among them. The NFL and NBA have issued security alerts to players over the break-ins. Victor Wembanyama plays 1-on-1 chess with fans in New York Victor Wembanyama went to a park in New York City and played 1-on-1 with fans on Saturday. He even lost a couple of games. Not in basketball, though. Wemby was playing chess. Before the San Antonio Spurs left New York for a flight to Minnesota, Wembanyama put out the call on social media: “Who wants to meet me at the SW corner of Washington Square park to play chess? Im there,” Wembanyama wrote. It was 9:36 a.m. And people began showing up almost immediately. Norwegian chess grandmaster Magnus Carlsen quits a tournament in a dispute over jeans NEW YORK (AP) — The International Chess Federation says top ranked player Magnus Carlsen has left the World Rapid and Blitz Chess Championships after refusing to change out of the jeans he wore to the competition. The federation said Friday that its regulations include a dress code that bars participants from wearing jeans at the event. The Norwegian chess grandmaster says he accepted a $200 fine but refused to change his pants out of principle before leaving the competition in New York. The federation said the dress code is designed to ensure professionalism and fairness for all participants.