how to play blackjack at home
CINCINNATI — In recent weeks, the Broncos’ offense has been in a tug-of-war between artistry and mediocrity. In Week 16’s loss to the Chargers, Denver scored 21 points and rushed for 89 yards in the first half, then mustered only six points and 21 rushing yards the rest of the way. On Saturday against the Bengals at Paycor Stadium, the Broncos scored just three points in the opening half before quarterback Bo Nix and the Denver offense came to life with three touchdown passes in the second half. Despite Nix’s resilient effort and wide receiver Marvin Mims Jr.’s spectacular two-touchdown performance, Denver’s slow start resulted in a gut-wrenching 30-24 loss to the Bengals in overtime. Denver’s boom-or-bust offense has produced two straight losses when a win in either game would’ve ended an eight-year playoff drought. And now the Broncos’ once iron-clad playoff hopes are in jeopardy, with the giving them a 58% chance of making the postseason entering Sunday’s games. “It doesn’t feel very good,” said Nix, who completed 24 of 31 passes for 219 yards, three touchdowns and an interception. “I think the only good thing that comes out of games like this is you see us battle, and you see us compete really hard. At the end of the day, if you compete really hard and fail, it’ll bring you flat on your face, but at least you’re out there competing.” The Bengals have been one of the worst passing defenses in the league. They are seventh in passing yards allowed (231.6), tied for 10th in yards per play (6.4) and tied for fifth in touchdown passes allowed (26). Despite that, the Broncos came out flat on Saturday. Denver’s 10-play, 58-yard scoring drive to start the game ended in a field goal. From that point on, the Broncos sputtered. Denver punted the ball on back-to-back drives before a disastrous two-minute drill to end the half. After finding DeVaughn Vele for a first down at the Cincinnati 45-yard line with just under a minute to go, Nix was sacked twice in the final 35 seconds to effectively end the scoring threat. Third-down execution was a problem for the second straight week. In the last two games, Denver has gone 9 for 25 (36%) on third down. Against the Bengals, the team went 4 for 12 in those situations and 1 for 5 in the first half. That included three three-and-outs that Cincinnati capitalized on. In the second quarter, Dever’s first three-and-out preceded a touchdown drive that ended with Joe Burrow finding wideout Tee Higgins for a 2-yard score and 7-3 Bengals lead. The Broncos had two more three-and-outs in OT, both of which were followed by Bengals scoring opportunities. Cade York botched the first with a 33-yard field goal miss, but Burrow made good on the second with a TD pass to Higgins. That capped a night that saw Cincinnati control the ball for 41 minutes, 56 seconds of game action, compared to Denver’s 26:57. “The time of possession was concerning at halftime,” head coach Sean Payton said. “We just knew offensively we had to help (the defense) out. ...We had our opportunities.” The Broncos did find a rhythm in the second half, gaining 221 yards. After carrying the ball twice for 21 yards in the first two quarters, running back Jaleel McLaughlin had eight carries for 48 yards over the final two quarters and overtime. That allowed Nix to push the ball downfield. The rookie QB averaged 11.8 air yards per attempt in the second half compared to 2.3 in the first, according to Next Gen Stats. With his back against the wall in the final nine minutes of the fourth, Nix let the ball fly. A beautiful 51-yard touchdown pass to Mims evened the score at 17-all, and Mims’ leaping 25-yard TD grab with seconds to go in regulation sent the game to OT. “We had to make the most of it in the second half, and I feel like we did that for the most part,” said Mims, who finished with eight catches for 103 yards. But after Payton decided against going for two at the end of regulation, the Broncos’ offensive struggles returned in overtime. Denver failed to capitalize on defensive end Zach Allen’s sack of Burrow during the first drive of the extra session. Or York’s missed field goal. In Denver’s six offensive plays, Nix went 2 for 4 for 2 yards while the Broncos totaled just 4 yards rushing. “Offensively, we went out there with the mindset that we’ve got to get some points on the board,” Mims said. “And at the end of the day, that’s not what happened.”Day 3 explored the philosophical contributions to the quality of life, and the ethical implications of AI and its impact on human life RIYADH, Saudi Arabia , Dec. 8, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The Riyadh International Philosophy Conference 2024 concluded its third and final day with a series of thought-provoking sessions exploring the theme of quality of life. The three-day event was held at the King Fahad National Library in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia , and brought together over 60 renowned global thinkers, including prominent figures such as Dr. Fausto Fraisopi, Dr. Abdelrahim Dekkoun, and Dr. Nermine Ezzeldin . Mr. Khalid AlSameti, General Manager of the General Administration of Literature at the Literature, Publishing & Translation Commission Dr. Mohammed bin Hasan Alwan , Chief Executive Officer of the Literature, Publishing, and Translation Commission, expressed his happiness with the success of the conference, stating: "This conference has showcased the power of philosophy to address the most pressing challenges of our time. By bringing together leading thinkers from around the world, we have fostered meaningful dialogue and inspired new ideas for a better future". The conference concluded with a powerful speech by Mr. Khalid AlSameti, General Manager of the General Administration of Literature at the Literature, Publishing & Translation Commission, who confirmed that: "The conference attracted visitors from all segments of society, with more than 5,400 visitors over its three days, creating a fertile environment that brings together the unique capabilities that the Kingdom embraces with its strategic understanding with its local and international partners. The General Administration of Literature seeks to make this conference a platform that leads the philosophical research movement and a pioneering academic event, not only in the Middle East , but also around the world". A Global Gathering of Minds The third day's program addressed a variety of topics related to human flourishing, from the role of philosophy in shaping a better future to the challenges of achieving quality of life in a multicultural world. A key highlight of the day was a session titled " A Philosophical Framework for Enhancing the Quality of Life in Cities in the Context of Diversity and Multiculturalism " led by Dr. Walid Al-Zamil . He discussed the importance of creating inclusive and equitable cities that respect the diverse needs and values of all residents. Another session titled " The Role of Social Solidarity in Supporting Female Athletes with Disabilities " by Ms. Najat Al-Shafai shed light on the importance of social support in empowering women with disabilities to participate in sports and recreation. Furthermore, the conference explored the intersection of philosophy and religion through sessions investigating the nature of the soul and its role in human life. Dr. Chafik Graigue discussed the concept of despair and its philosophical implications, while Professor Hossam Abdellatif examined the changing meaning of human dignity and its challenges in a high-tech society. These sessions offered valuable insights into the eternal questions of human existence and the challenges posed by rapid technological advancements. Inspiring Future Generations The conference also featured a panel discussion by Dr. Robert Bernasconi , and a session on " Artificial Intelligence and Its Impact on the Quality of Human Life: New Horizons and Ethical Challenges " led by Dr. Ingy Hamdi . This session delved into the complex ethical implications of AI and explored how to ensure that technology is used to enhance human well-being rather than diminish it. It also offered a variety of workshops and seminars on topics such as argumentation skills, critical thinking, aesthetics, and the history of logic in Islamic civilization. These workshops provided participants with practical tools and insights to apply philosophical thinking in their daily lives. Additionally, the conference established partnerships with prestigious international organizations, including New Philosopher and The School of Life, for the first time in Saudi Arabia As part of the Quality of Life Program, the conference underscores the relevance of philosophy in addressing contemporary societal challenges. By bridging the gap between academic thought and real-world applications, the conference reflects the Kingdom's commitment to intellectual enrichment and cultural exchange. The Riyadh International Philosophy Conference 2024 achieved remarkable success by bringing together leading thinkers from around the world to discuss the most pressing issues of our time, explore the philosophical foundations of quality of life, and inspire new ideas and approaches to create a better future for all. For more information, visit the conference's webpage .
TransMedics Reports Inducement Grants Under NASDAQ Listing Rule 5635(c)(4)Hong Kong Squash Open: Gohar seals title and world No 1 spot with win, Farag falls short
In a significant move to foster international ties, the City of Austin has entered into a Sister Cities Agreement with Limerick, Ireland, an arrangement aimed at stimulating cultural, educational, and economic engagements between the two cities, according to a press release from Austin's Economic Development Department . The signing ceremony, which saw Austin Mayor Kirk Watson and Limerick Mayor John Moran in attendance last Thursday, celebrates the potential of cooperation across the Atlantic. A new sign outside Austin City Hall heralds this transatlantic connection as a testament to the growing relationship between the cities. Under the newly established agreement business development, science and technology, and the creative industries are among the sectors expected to benefit from this transatlantic collaboration, as the two cities intend to leverage their similarities in entrepreneurial drive and innovation—an intent expressed by both Mayor Kirk Watson and Mayor John Moran, "Together, we will create opportunities for cultural exchange, economic collaboration, and shared innovation that will benefit both our communities and foster a lasting friendship across the Atlantic," Mayor Watson stated in a press release . Mayor Moran of Limerick echoed the sentiment, celebrating the shared entrepreneurial spirit and the already present business ties between their respective cities. The agreement stipulates yearly meetings and idea exchanges to maintain and strengthen communication channels aiming to enrich urban development, tourism, education, and further common interests. This Sister Cities partnership aligns with Austin Economic Development Department's strategic objectives to bolster global partnerships and ultimately foster mutual growth, in an effort bridging not just two cities, but two continents, Mayor Moran told reporters. Austin now counts 13 Sister Cities and 2 Friendship Cities, all managed by Austin Sister Cities International, a volunteer-driven initiative that ensures these international relationships are nurtured and productive. For entrepreneurs and locals interested in the potential expansions and opportunities arising from the city's global business strategies, the Economic Development Department's website serves as a lively hub of information and the starting point to tap into these new cross-border possibilities. Those looking for further details on Austin's initiatives to support business development, creative industries, and local communities can find vital resources by visiting the official Economic Development Department website at www.austintexas.gov/edd. The site also encourages subscribes to learn more through the department's newsletter and social media channels, enabling a connection with @AustinEconDev across various platforms.