Israel and Lebanon's Hezbollah agree to a ceasefire to end nearly 14 months of fighting JERUSALEM (AP) — Israel has approved a United States-brokered ceasefire agreement with Lebanon’s Hezbollah, setting the stage for an end to nearly 14 months of fighting linked to the ongoing war in the Gaza Strip. Israeli warplanes meanwhile carried out the most intense wave of strikes in Beirut and its southern suburbs since the start of the conflict and issued a record number of evacuation warnings. At least 24 people were killed in strikes across the country, according to local authorities, as Israel signaled it aims to keep pummeling Hezbollah before the ceasefire is set to take hold at 4 a.m. local time on Wednesday. President Joe Biden, speaking in Washington, called the agreement “good news” and said his administration would make a renewed push for a ceasefire in Gaza. What to know about ceasefire deal between Israel and Lebanon's Hezbollah A ceasefire deal that could end more than a year of cross-border fighting between Israel and Lebanon’s Hezbollah militant group won backing from Israeli leaders. The truce that is set to take effect early Wednesday raised hopes and renewed difficult questions in a region gripped by conflict. Hezbollah leaders also signaled tentative backing for the U.S.-brokered deal, which offers both sides an off-ramp from hostilities But the deal does little directly to resolve the much deadlier war that has raged in Gaza since Hamas militants attacked southern Israel last October. Trump vows tariffs over immigration. What the numbers say about border crossings, drugs and crime. WASHINGTON (AP) — President-elect Donald Trump is threatening tariffs on Mexico and Canada as he seeks to portray them as responsible for illegal immigration and drug smuggling. Over its tenure, the Biden administration has struggled with growing numbers of migrants arriving at the southern border. But this year, the number of people crossing the border without documents has actually been falling. That's due in part to stricter enforcement by Mexican authorities as well as asylum restrictions announced earlier this year by the Biden administration. When it comes to fentanyl smuggling, much of the deadly supply comes from Mexico though statistics show more than 86% of those sentenced for fentanyl trafficking crimes in the 12 months ending September 2023 were U.S. citizens. AP finds that a Pentagon-funded study on extremism in the military relied on old data Early this year, Pete Hegseth told a Fox News audience a new, Pentagon-funded study proved that the number of military service members and veterans involved in the Jan. 6 insurrection did not indicate a wider problem in the armed forces. Hegseth, Donald Trump's pick to head the Department of Defense, wasn’t alone. The Wall Street Journal’s opinion page highlighted the same report as evidence that extremists in military communities were “phantoms” created by a “false media narrative.” The X account for Republicans on the House Armed Services Committee posted that the study showed the focus on extremism in the military was a “witch hunt.” But The Associated Press has found that the study relied on old data, misleading analyses and ignored evidence that pointed to the opposite conclusion. How Trump's bet on voters electing him managed to silence some of his legal woes WASHINGTON (AP) — Special counsel Jack Smith move to abandon two federal cases accusing Trump of endangering American democracy and national security does away with the most serious legal threats Trump was facing as he returns to the White House. It was the culmination of a monthslong defense effort to delay the proceedings at every step and use the criminal allegations to Trump's political advantage, putting the final word in the hands of voters instead of jurors. The move just weeks after Trump’s victory over Vice President Kamala Harris underscores the immense personal stake Trump had in the campaign in which he turned his legal woes into a political rallying cry. Walmart's DEI rollback signals a profound shift in the wake of Trump's election victory NEW YORK (AP) — Walmart’s sweeping rollback of its diversity policies is the strongest indication yet of a profound shift taking hold at U.S. companies that are revaluating the legal and political risks associated with bold programs to bolster historically underrepresented groups in business. The risk associated with some of programs crystalized with the election of former President Donald Trump, whose administration is certain to make dismantling diversity, equity and inclusion programs a priority. Brazil’s Bolsonaro planned and participated in a 2022 coup plot, unsealed police report says SAO PAULO (AP) — Brazil’s former far-right President Jair Bolsonaro was fully aware of and actively participated in a coup plot to remain in office after his defeat in the 2022 election, according to a Federal Police report that has been unsealed. Brazil’s Federal Police last Thursday formally accused Bolsonaro and 36 other people of attempting a coup. They sent their 884-page report to the Supreme Court, which lifted the seal. Bolsonaro called a meeting in December 2022, during which he presented a draft decree to the commanders of the three divisions of the armed forces, that would have declared the vote fraudulent, to justify a possible military intervention. Bolsonaro has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing. Biden proposes Medicare and Medicaid cover costly weight-loss drugs for millions of obese Americans WASHINGTON (AP) — Millions of obese Americans would be eligible to have popular weight-loss drugs like Wegovy or Zepbound covered by Medicare or Medicaid under a new rule the Biden administration proposed Tuesday morning. The proposal, which would not be finalized until after President-elect Donald Trump takes office, could cost taxpayers as much as $35 billion over the next decade. It would give millions of people access to weekly injectables that have helped people shed pounds so quickly that some people have labeled them miracle drugs. New rule allows HIV-positive organ transplants People with HIV who need a kidney or liver transplant will be able to receive an organ from a donor with HIV. That's according to a new rule announced Tuesday by U.S. health officials. Previously, such transplants could be done only as part of research studies. The new rule takes effect Wednesday. It's expected to shorten the wait for organs for all, regardless of HIV status, by increasing the pool of available organs. The practice is supported by a decade of research, during which 500 transplants of kidneys and livers from HIV-positive donors have been done in the U.S. Surveillance tech advances by Biden could aid in Trump's promised crackdown on immigration President-elect Donald Trump will return to power next year with a raft of technological tools at his disposal that would help deliver his campaign promise of cracking down on immigration — among them, surveillance and artificial intelligence technology that the Biden administration already uses to help make crucial decisions in tracking, detaining and ultimately deporting immigrants lacking permanent legal status. One algorithm, for example, ranks immigrants with a “Hurricane Score,” ranging from 1-5, to assess whether someone will “abscond” from the agency’s supervision.Users Furious as Character.AI Deletes Countless Beloved "Harry Potter" Chatbots
Utah Valley St. 77, West Georgia 74Police say suspect in UnitedHealthcare CEO killing wasn't a client of the insurer
America's wealthiest billionaires have witnessed an extraordinary year in 2024, with their fortunes far outpacing the 3% growth of the U.S. economy. What Happened: Surging markets, fueled by advancements in technology and artificial intelligence, have propelled their wealth to unprecedented levels. According to the report by The Daily Beast, these top 10 billionaires amassed gains nearly equivalent to the U.S. government's annual defense budget of $850 billion. 10. Michael Dell : $14 Billion The founder of Dell Technologies DELL saw a 55% surge in his company's stock this year, thanks to its transformation into an infrastructure powerhouse for the AI age. Dell owns approximately half of the company, contributing significantly to his fortune. 9. Larry Page and Sergey Brin : $19–20 Billion The Alphabet GOOGL founders benefited from the company's $650 billion valuation increase in 2024. Despite stepping back from operations, they retain control through super-voting shares, owning just over 3% each of the tech giant. 8. Steve Ballmer : $20 Billion The former Microsoft MSFT CEO continues to profit from the company's revival under Satya Nadella. Ballmer owns 4.5% of Microsoft, which has funded ventures such as a new stadium for the LA Clippers, the NBA team he owns. 7. Warren Buffett : $29 Billion Through Berkshire Hathaway BRK , Buffett continues to outperform the market. The company's value rose 28% this year, helping Buffett build his cash reserves to an impressive $325 million, or 30% of Berkshire's valuation. 6. Jeff Bezos : $63 Billion Bezos, the founder of Amazon AMZN , saw his wealth soar by over $1 billion weekly as Amazon stock rebounded. Bezos retains nearly 9% of the company, funding projects like Blue Origin through periodic stock sales. Also Read: From Steve Ballmer To Jamie Dimon, Meet The Billionaires Who Amassed Their Wealth Without Founding A Company 5. Jensen Huang : $72 Billion The founder of Nvidia NVDA reaped immense gains as the company became the darling of the AI revolution. Nvidia's value more than doubled in 2024, with Huang's 3.8% stake driving his fortune. 4. Larry Ellison : $73 Billion The Oracle founder's fortune grew alongside the company's role as a key player in cloud computing. Ellison owns 43% of Oracle, benefiting significantly from the AI-driven surge in enterprise demand. 3. Mark Zuckerberg : $82 Billion Zuckerberg's Meta META saw its value rise more than sixfold since late 2022, thanks to strong margins and AI developments like the Llama open-source model. His 13.5% stake in Meta underpins his staggering gains. 2. The Waltons : $148 Billion America's richest family, heirs to Walmart WMT , collectively control the fortune built by Sam Walton. Their wealth solidifies Walmart's status as one of the largest employers in the country. 1. Elon Musk : $252 Billion The Tesla TSLA and SpaceX founder tops the list with his fortune growing by nearly $5 billion weekly. Musk's ventures, including Neuralink, the Boring Company, and his federal government initiatives, further cement his status as the most influential figure in business. Read Next Billionaires’ Paradise: New York Tops The List Of 16 Cities Housing The World’s Richest This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors. Image: Shutterstock © 2024 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.
Scam alert: How to beat the AI 'bots' after your moneyReal Madrid thrash Leganes 3-0; cuts down gap with Barcelona to four pointsGov. Jim Pillen signed a pair of initiatives into law that legalize and regulate medical marijuana in Nebraska on Thursday. With the stroke of a pen, Pillen fulfilled his statutory and constitutional duty, declaring the petitions circulated by Nebraskans for Medical Marijuana "in full force and effect as part of the statutes of the State of Nebraska." The governor stressed that despite issuing the proclamations, he still has reservations about the legality of the measures, however. The signing was met with praise from Nebraskans for Medical Marijuana, which conducted the campaign to put the issue before voters in each of the last three election cycles. Crista Eggers, campaign manager for the ballot committee, called the signing a win for Nebraska patients and caregivers who have advocated for medical cannabis at the Capitol and across the state for more than a decade. People are also reading... "There was a brave and courageous group of parents who, years and years ago, saw the help this plant was giving to patients in other states," Eggers said in a phone interview. "That group began fighting, they began educating and opening other people's minds and hearts to change the lives of their fellow Nebraskans." Crista Eggers, statewide campaign coordinator of Nebraskans for Medical Marijuana (center) chats with volunteers Nicole Hochstein (from left) of Papillion, Taylor Hutton and Chelle Jones, both of Omaha as they collect signatures for a ballot initiative in support of medical cannabis during the Omaha Farmers Market in May 2022. Eggers said supporters planned to celebrate the "hours, days, months, and years" that went into passing the initiatives with an eye on the future. Eggers, whose son Colton has severe intractable epilepsy, said the proclamations declaring Initiative 437 and Initiative 438 as law give many individuals and families hope for the future. "There's really no words to describe the hope this is going to give to so many," she said. Pillen's signing comes a day after a Lancaster County District Court judge denied a request from a former state lawmaker to bar the governor from signing the initiatives into law. On Wednesday, Judge Susan Strong rejected a motion from former state Sen. John Kuehn, a marijuana opponent who sued Pillen and Secretary of State Bob Evnen , seeking to stop the governor from issuing the proclamations. Strong, at the end of a nearly 45-minute hearing, said there were no reasons to stop the proclamations from being issued, adding "the public interest does not favor the issuance of the injunction." The judge also declined to rule on Kuehn's argument that the statutes were in conflict with federal law and that they created a new regulatory agency without approval from the Legislature. Strong previously ruled against a separate lawsuit brought by Kuehn , who alleged widespread fraud and malfeasance among Nebraskans for Medical Marijuana circulators and notaries. At the end of a four-day civil trial that ended Nov. 4, Strong said there was no evidence to show the initiatives should be deemed "legally insufficient" and have the votes for each declared void. That case has been appealed . On Wednesday, the Nebraska Supreme Court took the case from the Court of Appeals. Legal challenges may continue While the proclamations, which state the number of votes for and against each measure, were signed by Pillen and Evnen, a news release sent Thursday from the governor's office indicated legal challenges against the issues could continue. Pillen and Attorney General Mike Hilgers — whose office defended Pillen's obligation to declare the initiatives law during Wednesday's hearing — said they wanted to "caution the public on the limited nature of these proclamations." "The proclamations do not express a judgment on the validity of the measures," the governor and attorney general said. Pillen and Hilgers said they believe "serious issues" remain with the initiatives' legality under federal law. "The federal government has designated marijuana as a Schedule I controlled substance," they said. "Under federal law, it is unlawful to either possess or sell Schedule I controlled substances. "The passed measures cannot, and do not, change federal law," the message concluded. Nebraska voters overwhelmingly supported both medical marijuana initiatives at the Nov. 5 election, joining 38 other states that have previously enacted medical cannabis laws. Initiative 437, which allows doctors to recommend cannabis to their patients and for patients who have been recommended cannabis by a doctor to possess and use it, passed with more than 70% of the vote. Initiative 438, which establishes a regulatory process for medical marijuana, received 67% support at the election. Both measures won 70 of Nebraska's 93 counties. With Initiative 438 taking effect, a new commission will be responsible for developing regulations for medical marijuana businesses before July 1, 2025. Medical marijuana outlets could then begin applying for licenses beginning Oct. 1, 2025. The commission will include three members of the Nebraska Liquor Control Commission, with Pillen able to appoint two other members. Those nominees would need to be confirmed by a majority of the Legislature, which convenes for a 90-day session on Jan. 8. One member of the Liquor Control Commission, Harry Hoch Jr., will see his term expire in May next year, meaning Pillen could potentially appoint three members of the body responsible for drawing up regulations for medical marijuana in Nebraska. Eggers said Nebraskans for Medical Marijuana and its supporters planned to celebrate the "hours, days, months, and years" that went into passing the initiatives with an eye on the future. "We know this is just one more step and we intend to fully continue advocating for safe and regulated access to medical cannabis," she said, adding the organization planned to participate in the regulatory process. Eggers said she plans to continue advocating for other parents of children with severe forms of epilepsy and other illnesses to be able to consult with their doctors about medical cannabis "and walk away with more hope for their child's future." "We don't stop fighting until that day happens," she said. Marijuana motion denied; petition aims to protect renters; 2025 football schedule Top Journal Star photos for December 2024 Norris' Evan Greenfield (22) scores a layup as Wahoo's Jase Kaminski (13) goes up to defend the basket in the second half on Tuesday, Dec. 10, 2024, at Wahoo High School. Ruby Augustine blows out the candles on her birthday cake during her 105th birthday party on Saturday, Dec. 7, 2024, at the Legacy Retirement Community. Cicely Wardyn of Lincoln adjusts an outdoor heater next to a Nativity scene during the Hometown Christmas event Sunday at the Governor's Mansion. Eddie Walters, dressed as the Grinch, leads the pack of runners along the Billy Wolff trail during the Santa Fun Run on Saturday, Dec. 7, 2024. Nebraska plays against Florida A&M in an NCAA tournament game on Friday, Dec. 6, 2024, at the Bob Devaney Sports Center. Fourth grade student Lulu Kulwick carries her review worksheet to meet with her teacher during computer science class. Each student was asked to analyze how fun, challenging and easy to understand each game was, and discuss what they thought was a good aspect to the game, and what could use some work. Ben Heppner is illuminated by morning light as he waits for the start of the Santa Fun Run on Saturday, Dec. 7, 2024, inside the Fleet Feet store. Nebraska head coach Amy Williams (left) and Callin Hake (14) cheer for their team after a defensive stop during the third quarter of the game against Minnesota on Sunday, Dec. 8, 2024, at Pinnacle Bank Arena. Members of the Lincoln Journal Star's 2024 Super State volleyball team compete in Dance Dance Revolution and air hockey while at a photo shoot on Wednesday, Dec. 4, 2024, at Round 1 Arcade. Lincoln North Star's J'Shawn Afun (10) and Mekhi Wayne-Browne (11) battle Lincoln Southeast's Jaydee Dongrin (21) for a rebound in the first half on Friday, Dec. 6, 2024, at Lincoln Southeast High School. Miami's Flormarie Heredia Colon (left) and Ashley Carr celebrate a point against South Dakota State during an NCAA first-round match, Friday, Dec. 6, 2024, at the Devaney Sports Center. Workers pull up the Capitol Christmas tree on Monday at the Capitol. The 22-foot Colorado spruce from Walton was selected by the Office of the Capitol Commission to be this year’s annual Christmas tree. Jenni Watson helps to arrange chairs for New Covenant Community Church's first service in their repaired main auditorium on Thursday, Dec. 5, 2024, at New Covenant Community Church. New Covenant Community Church is nearing completion of six months of reconstruction project after a fire in May damages the church. While the building was not fully consumed by fire, there was significant water damage to the main auditorium and the first floor south wing. Jack, the dog, lifts his leg on the Christmas tree that his owners David and Karen Petersen of Hickman chose as Max Novak helps them on Saturday at Prairie Woods tree farm in Hallam. Iowa's Drew Stevens (18) kicks a game-winning field goal through the arms of Nebraska's Ty Robinson (9) and Nash Hutmacher (0) on Friday at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. Lincoln Northwest senior Kynzee McFadden (top right) works with her teammates as they compete in an identifying game on the Anatomage Table on Tuesday at Lincoln Northwest High School. An Anatomage Table is a digital platform that allows students to perform virtual experiments on a life-size touchscreen. The table is a tool that provides an interactive view of the human body, allowing students to virtually work with different body parts. Dahlia Brandon of Lincoln tickles her 15-month-old daughter, Gema, with a stuffed animal while shopping at HobbyTown on Saturday. The toy and game store nearly doubled its sales on Black Friday from last year. Nebraska's Berke Büyüktuncel (left) and South Dakota's Max Burchill (3) reach for the ball during the first half of the game on Wednesday, Nov. 27, 2024, at Pinnacle Bank Arena. Reach the writer at 402-473-7120 or cdunker@journalstar.com . On Bluesky @chrisdunker.bsky.social Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox! Higher education/statehouse reporter {{description}} Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items.
With more than half of the 16 teams still mathematically alive to make the conference championship game, the Big 12 will command a lot of attention in the final week of the regular season. No. 14 Arizona State and No. 17 Iowa State would play for the Big 12 title and likely College Football Playoff spot on Dec. 7 if they both win Saturday and there's a four-way tie for first place. There are seven other teams that begin this week with hopes, slim in most cases, of getting into the game at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. Last week it was No. 19 BYU and No. 23 Colorado that had the inside track to the championship game. Arizona State beat the Cougars and Kansas knocked off the Buffaloes, and here we are. "Everybody counted us out, I think, two weeks ago," Iowa State coach Matt Campbell said after his team beat Utah 31-28. "We didn't flinch. We didn't waver. And we just keep fighting." The Cyclones were national darlings the first half of the season as they won seven straight games to match the best start in program history. Back-to-back losses to Texas Tech and Kansas followed. Now they've won two straight heading into "Farmageddon," their rivalry game against Kansas State at home. "Right now they've got the pen and they continue to write the story," Campbell said of his players, "and I hope they will continue to write it the way they've got the ability to write it. Unwavering. Tough, mentally tough, physically tough. This group has stood for it every step of the way." Arizona State has been an even better story than the Cyclones. The Sun Devils have six more wins than they did last season, when they went 3-9. They were picked to finish last in their first year in the Big 12. They'll go for their fifth straight victory when they play at Arizona on Saturday. "These guys came off no momentum and everybody doubting them, and everybody is still doubting them. That's what makes this special," second-year coach Kenny Dillingham said. "Hopefully the expectations become higher. I don't know if there's a way we can exceed expectations more than we're exceeding them right now." Checking in on five of the Top 25: The Ducks were idle Saturday after clinching a spot in the Big Ten championship game with their win at Wisconsin on Nov. 16. Oregon can go 12-0 in the regular season for the first time since 2010 if it beats Washington at home this week. Oregon's only two losses last season came against the Huskies, both decided by three points. The first was a top-10 matchup in the regular season and the second was a top-five matchup in the Pac-12 championship game. The Ducks are 19 1/2-point favorites this time, according to BetMGM Sportsbook. The Buckeyes' showdown with upstart Indiana combined with Michigan's dropoff after winning the national championship have lowered the volume on this week's meeting with the Wolverines at the Horseshoe. If Michigan beats Ohio State a fourth straight time and it keeps the Buckeyes out of the Big Ten championship game and playoff ... well, there'll be lots of noise in Columbus then. The Lone Star Showdown returns to the gridiron for the first time since 2011, when Texas and Texas A&M were in the Big 12. The Longhorns head to No. 20 Texas A&M on a four-game win streak. The Aggies have lost two of three after Saturday's four-overtime loss at Auburn. The winner advances to the Southeastern Conference championship game against Georgia. The Broncos are tied with Notre Dame for the second-longest active win streak, at nine games, and they seem to have adopted a survive-and-advance mantra. They trailed 23-point underdog Wyoming in the fourth quarter before winning 17-13 and clinching a spot in the Mountain West championship game. They won their previous game, 42-21 against San Jose State, but didn't pull away until the fourth quarter. Two weeks ago they beat a three-win Nevada team 28-21. Just when you think Illinois is about to cash in for the season, they do what they did against Rutgers. The Illini were down 31-30 when they lined up for a 58-yard field goal with 14 seconds left. Ethan Moczulski missed. But wait. Rutgers called timeout before the snap, and Bret Bielema thought better of trying another kick and sent his offense back on the field. Luke Altmyer passed to Pat Bryant for the winning 40-yard touchdown. The Illini won't play for the Big Ten title, but they have a chance for nine wins and a nice bowl. Ohio State played in three of the five regular-season top-five matchups and won three of them. The Buckeyes lost to Oregon and beat Penn State and Indiana. ... Kansas' 37-21 win over Colorado made the Jayhawks the first FBS team with a losing record to beat three straight Top 25 opponents. The Jayhawks, who were 2-6 a month ago, will be bowl eligible if they win at Baylor. ... Nebraska ended the longest power conference bowl drought with its 44-25 win over Wisconsin. The Cornhuskers haven't played in a bowl since 2016. Get local news delivered to your inbox!Special counsel moves to dismiss election interference and classified documents cases against Trump
Share Tweet Share Share Email Managing a fleet of vehicles can be a daunting task for businesses of any size. From acquiring vehicles to maintaining them in peak condition, fleet management often involves significant time, effort, and resources. Fortunately, lease and maintenance subscription plans provide an efficient solution to these challenges. These plans streamline operations, reduce costs, and enhance the overall efficiency of fleet management. Let’s dive into how these plans work, their benefits, and why they are becoming a popular choice for fleet operators. What Are Lease and Maintenance Subscription Plans? Lease and maintenance subscription plans are comprehensive packages offered by leasing companies. These plans include vehicle leasing combined with maintenance services for a set monthly fee. Businesses no longer need to worry about unexpected repair costs, scheduling maintenance, or purchasing vehicles outright. These plans are designed to cover: Vehicle acquisition. Routine maintenance and servicing. Repairs and replacements for wear-and-tear items. Insurance and registration assistance in some cases. By bundling these services, businesses gain predictability in costs and ease of management. Benefits of Lease and Maintenance Subscription Plans Cost Predictability One of the most significant advantages is cost predictability. Fleet operators can avoid unexpected repair bills or fluctuating maintenance costs. With a fixed monthly fee, budgeting becomes straightforward, allowing businesses to allocate resources more effectively. Reduced Administrative Burden Managing a fleet often involves juggling multiple vendors, service providers, and invoices. Lease and maintenance subscription plans consolidate these tasks under a single provider. This reduces the administrative burden and simplifies operations, freeing up time for other strategic tasks. Enhanced Vehicle Performance Regular maintenance ensures vehicles operate efficiently. Subscription plans often include scheduled servicing, inspections, and repairs, minimizing downtime and improving the performance and lifespan of the fleet. Scalability As businesses grow, their fleet requirements often change. Subscription plans offer flexibility to scale up or down, allowing operators to add or remove vehicles as needed. This adaptability is particularly beneficial for seasonal businesses or those experiencing rapid growth. Compliance and Safety Maintaining compliance with regulatory standards is crucial for fleet operators. Subscription plans typically ensure vehicles meet all safety and environmental regulations. This reduces the risk of fines or legal issues while ensuring driver and passenger safety. Environmental Benefits Many leasing companies offer access to eco-friendly or hybrid vehicles. These options help businesses reduce their carbon footprint while enjoying lower fuel costs. Subscription plans can also include services to monitor and optimize fuel efficiency. Key Features to Look For in Subscription Plans When selecting a lease and maintenance subscription plan, businesses should evaluate the following features: Comprehensive Coverage Ensure the plan covers all essential aspects of fleet management, including maintenance, repairs, and roadside assistance. The more inclusive the package, the fewer out-of-pocket expenses you’ll incur. Customization Options Every business has unique needs. Look for providers that offer customizable plans tailored to your specific fleet size, type, and operational requirements. Transparent Pricing Hidden fees can undermine the cost-saving benefits of subscription plans. Choose a provider that offers transparent pricing with no hidden charges. Reliable Support Timely support is crucial in fleet management. Opt for a provider with a proven track record of excellent customer service and quick response times. Technological Integration Modern fleet management often involves leveraging technology. Many subscription plans include telematics solutions, GPS tracking, and maintenance scheduling software. These tools enhance operational efficiency and provide valuable data insights. How Lease and Maintenance Plans Simplify Operations Streamlining Maintenance Scheduling Coordinating maintenance schedules for multiple vehicles can be challenging. Subscription plans often include automated scheduling, reminders, and pre-arranged servicing. This ensures vehicles receive timely care without disrupting operations. Minimizing Downtime Unexpected breakdowns can derail operations and lead to revenue losses. With a subscription plan, vehicles receive regular inspections and preventive maintenance, reducing the likelihood of breakdowns and ensuring minimal downtime. Single-Point Contact Instead of dealing with multiple vendors for leasing, repairs, and servicing, businesses have a single point of contact. This simplifies communication and accelerates issue resolution. Access to Newer Models Leasing plans often provide access to the latest vehicle models with improved safety and efficiency features. This keeps fleets updated and competitive in the market. Budget-Friendly Operations Fixed monthly payments help businesses maintain financial stability. Predictable costs make it easier to plan and allocate budgets without worrying about sudden expenses. Why Businesses Are Adopting These Plans The popularity of lease and maintenance subscription plans has grown significantly in recent years. Here are the key reasons driving this trend: Rising Maintenance Costs With the increasing complexity of modern vehicles, maintenance costs have soared. Subscription plans mitigate these expenses by including them in the monthly fee. Focus on Core Activities By outsourcing fleet management tasks, businesses can focus on their core activities. This improves productivity and allows operators to prioritize growth strategies. Sustainability Goals Many companies are adopting sustainable practices. Access to electric or hybrid vehicles through subscription plans aligns with these goals while offering operational savings. Competitive Advantage Efficient fleet management provides a competitive edge. Reliable vehicles, reduced downtime, and cost savings enable businesses to deliver better services to their customers. Improved Driver Satisfaction Subscription plans often include features that improve the driver’s experience. Vehicles are well-maintained, reducing breakdowns and enhancing reliability. Drivers also benefit from access to newer models with better safety features and comfort . Challenges and How to Overcome Them While lease and maintenance subscription plans offer numerous benefits, they may come with challenges. Common issues include: Limited Flexibility Some plans may have rigid terms, making it difficult to adapt to changing business needs. To address this, businesses should negotiate terms and choose providers offering flexible options. Higher Upfront Costs Certain providers may require an initial deposit or setup fee. Comparing different providers and negotiating terms can help minimize these costs. Dependence on Providers Relying heavily on a single provider may pose risks. Businesses should evaluate the provider’s reputation and service quality before committing. Addressing Technological Gaps Some providers may not offer advanced telematics or fleet management tools. Businesses should ensure the chosen plan includes modern solutions that meet their operational needs. Conclusion Lease and maintenance subscription plans are transforming fleet management . By offering a comprehensive solution to vehicle acquisition, maintenance, and compliance, these plans simplify operations and reduce costs. Businesses can enjoy predictable expenses, improved vehicle performance, and scalability to meet evolving needs. As the demand for efficient and sustainable fleet management grows, adopting these subscription plans is a strategic move that ensures operational success. With the right plan and provider, businesses can focus on their core objectives, leaving fleet management complexities behind. Related Items: Enhanced Vehicle Performance , Lease and Maintenance , Simplifying Operations Share Tweet Share Share Email CommentsDemocrats plan to elect new party leader just days after Trump's inaugurationScottsdale police arrest man found with missing juvenile
With more than half of the 16 teams still mathematically alive to make the conference championship game, the Big 12 will command a lot of attention in the final week of the regular season. No. 14 Arizona State and No. 17 Iowa State would play for the Big 12 title and likely College Football Playoff spot on Dec. 7 if they both win Saturday and there's a four-way tie for first place. There are seven other teams that begin this week with hopes, slim in most cases, of getting into the game at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. Last week it was No. 19 BYU and No. 23 Colorado that had the inside track to the championship game. Arizona State beat the Cougars and Kansas knocked off the Buffaloes, and here we are. "Everybody counted us out, I think, two weeks ago," Iowa State coach Matt Campbell said after his team beat Utah 31-28. "We didn't flinch. We didn't waver. And we just keep fighting." People are also reading... The Cyclones were national darlings the first half of the season as they won seven straight games to match the best start in program history. Back-to-back losses to Texas Tech and Kansas followed. Now they've won two straight heading into "Farmageddon," their rivalry game against Kansas State at home. "Right now they've got the pen and they continue to write the story," Campbell said of his players, "and I hope they will continue to write it the way they've got the ability to write it. Unwavering. Tough, mentally tough, physically tough. This group has stood for it every step of the way." Arizona State has been an even better story than the Cyclones. The Sun Devils have six more wins than they did last season, when they went 3-9. They were picked to finish last in their first year in the Big 12. They'll go for their fifth straight victory when they play at Arizona on Saturday. "These guys came off no momentum and everybody doubting them, and everybody is still doubting them. That's what makes this special," second-year coach Kenny Dillingham said. "Hopefully the expectations become higher. I don't know if there's a way we can exceed expectations more than we're exceeding them right now." Checking in on five of the Top 25: No. 1 Oregon The Ducks were idle Saturday after clinching a spot in the Big Ten championship game with their win at Wisconsin on Nov. 16. Oregon can go 12-0 in the regular season for the first time since 2010 if it beats Washington at home this week. Oregon's only two losses last season came against the Huskies, both decided by three points. The first was a top-10 matchup in the regular season and the second was a top-five matchup in the Pac-12 championship game. The Ducks are 19 1/2-point favorites this time, according to BetMGM Sportsbook. No. 2 Ohio State The Buckeyes' showdown with upstart Indiana combined with Michigan's dropoff after winning the national championship have lowered the volume on this week's meeting with the Wolverines at the Horseshoe. If Michigan beats Ohio State a fourth straight time and it keeps the Buckeyes out of the Big Ten championship game and playoff ... well, there'll be lots of noise in Columbus then. No. 3 Texas The Lone Star Showdown returns to the gridiron for the first time since 2011, when Texas and Texas A&M were in the Big 12. The Longhorns head to No. 20 Texas A&M on a four-game win streak. The Aggies have lost two of three after Saturday's four-overtime loss at Auburn. The winner advances to the Southeastern Conference championship game against Georgia. No. 11 Boise State The Broncos are tied with Notre Dame for the second-longest active win streak, at nine games, and they seem to have adopted a survive-and-advance mantra. They trailed 23-point underdog Wyoming in the fourth quarter before winning 17-13 and clinching a spot in the Mountain West championship game. They won their previous game, 42-21 against San Jose State, but didn't pull away until the fourth quarter. Two weeks ago they beat a three-win Nevada team 28-21. No. 22 Illinois Just when you think Illinois is about to cash in for the season, they do what they did against Rutgers. The Illini were down 31-30 when they lined up for a 58-yard field goal with 14 seconds left. Ethan Moczulski missed. But wait. Rutgers called timeout before the snap, and Bret Bielema thought better of trying another kick and sent his offense back on the field. Luke Altmyer passed to Pat Bryant for the winning 40-yard touchdown. The Illini won't play for the Big Ten title, but they have a chance for nine wins and a nice bowl. Extra Points Ohio State played in three of the five regular-season top-five matchups and won three of them. The Buckeyes lost to Oregon and beat Penn State and Indiana. ... Kansas' 37-21 win over Colorado made the Jayhawks the first FBS team with a losing record to beat three straight Top 25 opponents. The Jayhawks, who were 2-6 a month ago, will be bowl eligible if they win at Baylor. ... Nebraska ended the longest power conference bowl drought with its 44-25 win over Wisconsin. The Cornhuskers haven't played in a bowl since 2016. Get local news delivered to your inbox!NEW YORK , Dec. 12, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Lument Finance Trust, Inc. (NYSE: LFT ) ("LFT" or the "Company") announced the declaration of a cash dividend of $0.08 per share of common stock with respect to the fourth quarter of 2024. The Company also announced the declaration of a one-time special cash dividend of $0.09 per share of common stock due to real estate investment trust tax considerations. These dividends are payable on January 15, 2025 , to common stockholders of record as of the close of business on December 31, 2024 . The Company also announced the declaration of a cash dividend of $0.4921875 per share of 7.875% Cumulative Redeemable Series A Preferred Stock. The dividend is payable on January 15, 2025 to preferred stockholders of record as of the close of business January 2, 2025 . Javascript is required for you to be able to read premium content. Please enable it in your browser settings.
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (AP) — David Early scored 10 points as Radford beat Chicago State 63-48 on Monday. Early shot 3 of 6 from the field and 4 of 4 from the free-throw line for the Highlanders (5-2). Isaiah Gaines, Truth Harris and Jarvin Moss all added nine points. Jalen Forrest finished with 12 points and six rebounds for the Cougars (0-7). The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar .