Montrose County and state officials are investigating from the Uncompahgre Plateau, the sheriff’s office said Tuesday. Investigators believe approximately 180 cattle were southwest of Montrose and are seeking information about the theft, Sgt. Chuck Searcy said. Sheriff’s officials learned of the missing cattle last week in a meeting with local ranchers and the Colorado Brand Board, Searcy said. The cattle, mostly mixed-colored calves, are valued at between $300,000 and $400,000. “It’s normal to have a yearly loss on cattle from different things when they’re up on the mountain, like predators and natural causes,” Searcy said. “This isn’t something like that. This is something nefarious for sure.” The is also investigating but could not immediately be reached for comment. Anyone with information about the case can call WestCo Dispatch at 970-249-9110.Ping An Healthcare and Technology Company Limited (OTCMKTS:PANHF) Sees Large Growth in Short Interest
Per the Fifth Circuit, the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) exceeded the plain language of its statutory authority when it sanctioned Tornado Cash, a popular cryptocurrency mixing service, for allegedly facilitating money laundering for malicious actors, including North Korea. While recognizing that bad actors may take advantage of Tornado Cash for malicious cyber activities, the court held that the immutable “smart contracts” at issue do not constitute “property” under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) because they are not capable of being owned and because no one can exclude others from using them. On Nov. 26, 2024, in what has been deemed a win for open-source technology, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit reversed the district court’s ruling in Van Loon v. United States Dep’t of the Treasury , holding that OFAC overstepped its authority under IEEPA when it sanctioned Tornado Cash in 2022. Applying the U. S. Supreme Court’s recent decision in Loper Bright v. Raimondo , which abolished the longstanding Chevron doctrine, the Fifth Circuit held that the district court erred in giving “heightened deference” to OFAC’s definition of “property” and in finding that immutable smart contracts met that definition. The court analyzed IEEPA’s statutory text to determine that the “ordinary” or “plain meaning” of “property” is that “[it] is capable of being owned.” The panel noted one of the most essential rights associated with “property” is “the right to exclude others.” Citing to Tornado Cash’s “trusted setup ceremony” where over 1,000 volunteers irrevocably removed the option for others to update, remove, or otherwise control the smart contracts’ lines of code, the Fifth Circuit concluded that no one had the ability to “exclude” anyone – even the targeted North Korean wrongdoers – from using the smart contracts. The Fifth Circuit highlighted that its inquiry under Loper Bright could have ended with the conclusion that the plain meaning of “property” in IEEPA does not support the sanctions designation, but it went a step further to conclude that the smart contracts would not be subject to sanction even under OFAC’s own broad regulatory definition of “property,” because the immutable smart contracts are not ownable, and they do not qualify as true “contracts” or “services” as those terms are used in the regulations. Background In August 2022, the OFAC sanctioned Tornado Cash, an open-source crypto-transaction software protocol that allows customers to obscure the original source of virtual currency transactions by mixing multiple transactions and then redistributing them. Citing the protocol’s alleged role in laundering virtual currency for North Korean cyber criminals and others that threaten U.S. national security, OFAC added Tornado Cash to its list of Specially Designated National and Blocked Persons (SDN), prohibiting all U.S. persons from engaging with Tornado Cash, directly or indirectly, or dealing in “property” in which Tornado Cash has an interest. OFAC, which generally interprets the definition and scope of “property” broadly, in this instance interpreted “property” to include open-source computer code known as “smart contracts.” Smart contracts are computer programs stored on a blockchain network that do not require validators and automatically perform tasks – such as executing transactions and transferring cryptocurrency assets – when prompted by a user. A smart contract is considered “immutable” if it cannot be altered or removed from the blockchain. Six Tornado Cash users sued OFAC in the Western District of Texas, claiming that Tornado Cash’s inclusion on the SDN list exceeded OFAC’s statutory authority under IEEPA. The district court granted summary judgment in OFAC’s favor and the users appealed. Takeaways The panel’s opinion reflects judicial reluctance to regulate emerging technologies by stretching a pre-internet-era statute to fit a contemporary framework, even where there may be persuasive policy reasons for doing so. The Fifth Circuit acknowledged the “real-world downsides” of certain uncontrollable technologies that would fall outside of OFAC’s sanctioning authority and recognized that bad actors may take advantage of immutable “smart contracts” for malicious cyber activities. Ultimately, the court shifted the burden onto Congress to update potentially outdated legislation. It remains to be seen whether Congress takes up the court’s invitation to consider extending IEEPA to target modern technologies specifically created to prevent them from being controlled. It is also unclear how the executive branch may adapt its enforcement strategies to try to address the potential for criminal misuse of immutable smart contracts, especially by actors located outside the United States.CHICAGO, Dec. 06, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Monroe Capital Corporation (the “Company”) (NASDAQ: MRCC) announced today that its Board of Directors has declared a distribution of $0.25 per share for the fourth quarter of 2024, payable on December 30, 2024 to stockholders of record as of December 16, 2024. In October 2012, the Company adopted a dividend reinvestment plan that provides for reinvestment of distributions on behalf of its stockholders, unless a stockholder elects to receive cash prior to the record date. When the Company declares a cash distribution, stockholders who have not opted out of the dividend reinvestment plan prior to the record date will have their distribution automatically reinvested in additional shares of the Company’s capital stock. The specific tax characteristics of the distribution will be reported to stockholders on Form 1099 after the end of the calendar year and in the Company’s periodic report filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. About Monroe Capital Corporation Monroe Capital Corporation is a publicly-traded specialty finance company that principally invests in senior, unitranche and junior secured debt and, to a lesser extent, unsecured debt and equity investments in middle-market companies. The Company’s investment objective is to maximize the total return to its stockholders in the form of current income and capital appreciation. The Company’s investment activities are managed by its investment adviser, Monroe Capital BDC Advisors, LLC, which is an investment adviser registered under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended, and an affiliate of Monroe Capital LLC. To learn more about Monroe Capital Corporation, visit www.monroebdc.com . About Monroe Capital LLC Monroe Capital LLC (including its subsidiaries and affiliates, together “Monroe”) is a premier asset management firm specializing in private credit markets across various strategies, including direct lending, technology finance, venture debt, alternative credit, structured credit, real estate and equity. Since 2004, the firm has been successfully providing capital solutions to clients in the U.S. and Canada. Monroe prides itself on being a value-added and user-friendly partner to business owners, management, and both private equity and independent sponsors. Monroe’s platform offers a wide variety of investment products for both institutional and high net worth investors with a focus on generating high quality “alpha” returns irrespective of business or economic cycles. The firm is headquartered in Chicago and maintains 10 offices throughout the United States and Asia. Monroe has been recognized by both its peers and investors with various awards including Inc.'s 2024 Founder-Friendly Investors List; Private Debt Investor as the 2023 Lower Mid-Market Lender of the Decade, 2023 Lower Mid-Market Lender of the Year, 2023 CLO Manager of the Year, Americas; Global M&A Network as the 2023 Lower Mid-Markets Lender of the Year, U.S.A.; DealCatalyst as the 2022 Best CLO Manager of the Year; Korean Economic Daily as the 2022 Best Performance in Private Debt – Mid Cap; Creditflux as the 2021 Best U.S. Direct Lending Fund; and Pension Bridge as the 2020 Private Credit Strategy of the Year. For more information and important disclaimers, please visit www.monroecap.com . Forward-Looking Statements This press release may contain certain forward-looking statements. Any such statements, other than statements of historical fact, are likely to be affected by other unknowable future events and conditions, including elements of the future that are or are not under the Company’s control, and that the Company may or may not have considered; accordingly, such statements cannot be guarantees or assurances of any aspect of future performance. Actual developments and results are highly likely to vary materially from these estimates and projections of the future. Such statements speak only as of the time when made, and the Company undertakes no obligation to update any such statement now or in the future. SOURCE: Monroe Capital CorporationWhen Claire realised she needed protection from a former partner, the warning she received was stark. Black Friday Sale Subscribe Now! Login or signup to continue reading All articles from our website The digital version of Today's Paper Breaking news alerts direct to your inbox All articles from the other regional websites in your area Continue "If you go down this pathway, don't be surprised if the abuse gets worse. Don't be surprised if his behaviour towards you gets worse," she says police and lawyers told her about starting civil proceedings. "But you know, just call us. We're only a phone call away." The feeling of security a court-issued family violence order initially gave her was fleeting. "It doesn't really give you any safety. It's just words at the end of the day. So, you just are living in this constant state of fear," she tells ACM. Like Claire, Olivia's order doesn't make her feel any safer from a man she fears so much she has fled the ACT multiple times during civil and criminal proceedings. "What it did was made me feel like that was now the highest risk time," she says about the order being served. Thousands marched to Parliament House in April in the wake of Australian women dying at the hands of men. Picture by Keegan Carroll, Shutterstock Claire and Olivia's cases are, in many ways, similar examples of family violence. The pair have feared for the safety of their children and shared crisis services, and both describe the court orders purportedly protecting them as "just a piece of paper". They are also both referred to using pseudonyms for their safety and because identifying parties involved in protection order proceedings is illegal in the ACT. Messages, threats, murder Family violence order breaches are frequent in the territory and range from overt to surreptitious. They can be frighteningly creative, intimidating and, in some cases, fatal. Acts of violence, letters, stalking, deliveries, threats, notes, phone calls, bank transfer messages, or even a Spotify playlist have all been used to terrify victims who sought a legal form of security. One such order failed to stop a man from sending his ex-partner almost 1000 messages and threatening her life with a hunting knife . Another local abuser ignored the order his ex-wife obtained when he sent her 290 messages in one day and threatened to share a video of the pair having sex. In August, a serial perpetrator was sentenced in the ACT Supreme Court for raping his former partner only hours after being released from jail. Justice David Mossop described the NSW apprehended domestic violence order in place designed to protect that territory victim as "completely ineffective". An order also didn't stop a man from sending his ex-partner pipe bomb and napalm-related threats, or an image of himself defiantly burning the legal document. Nor did the court's protection prevent Marcus Rappel from forcing his way into Tara Costigan's home and murdering her with an axe as she fed their newborn baby . A judge found the horrific attack was his retaliation to the interim order granted the previous day. Tara Costigan, who was murdered a day after being granted a family violence order. Picture supplied On the frontline, ACT police attended 3352 family violence incidents last financial year. Of the 1053 related apprehensions made, being any action commencing legal proceedings by charging someone, about 40 per cent of those people had been previously apprehended for family violence. This two-part series gives a voice to those whose accounts of abuse have been heard and vindicated by the courts but who feel let down, marginalised and left to fend for themselves by the criminal justice system. 'Just a piece of paper' Before splitting up with her high school sweetheart, Claire believed she was in a good marriage with a supportive and loving man. Looking back, she says: "I was 100 per cent in an abusive - emotionally abusive, financially abusive - relationship." "I see it now clear as day." After they separated, his communication turned into abusive text messages, berating calls and veiled threats. "The mask came off," she says, and she was eventually granted a family violence order after presenting the man's conduct to a court. The ACT Magistrates Court. Picture by Karleen Minney It would take police nearly two months to serve the order due to inter-jurisdictional complications. "Obviously I felt a bit of relief when I had the [order] granted. It was the first time I'd ever been in a situation like that and I thought, 'OK, I will feel safe from now on'," Claire recalls. "But of course, that's not the case. At the end of the day, it's just a piece of paper. It really doesn't do much in terms of stopping the behaviour. "More often than not they know that, they understand that, and they continue to do it." But despite the order being granted, Claire claims her ex-husband frequently breaches its conditions or purposefully hovers around its edges. "There have been occasions where he's been only a couple of metres away from me and he thinks it's quite funny," she says. "He will regularly staunch or stare at me or intimidate me, flex his muscles during drop off. And he does this in front of our kids - they've commented on it before." Claire believes it's the man's way of showing he can still scare and control her despite a court finding that type of behaviour warranted protection. ACT Magistrates can deal with dozens of family violence cases in a day. Picture by Karleen Minney "Breach left, right and centre - each time that has happened and nothing has been done. It emboldens the perpetrator," she says. "They already believe they're untouchable, and they can do whatever they want, and there are no consequences." 'You're on your own' Claire says police haven't taken alleged order breaches seriously and, for example, told her the man "could spin that and say that's not what actually happened". She recalls an occasion when her child joked about killing her if she didn't read them a book. The child told her they heard the chilling words from her ex-husband and been asked if they, too, wanted to "kill mummy". But it was the man's word against hers, Claire says police told her, and their child was too young to be considered a credible witness. April's National Rally Against Violence in Canberra. Picture by Keegan Carroll More recently, her ex-husband walked by her at an after-school event against the distance terms of the order and in sight of a witness who provided a supportive statement. But Claire says an officer told her they couldn't charge the man with a breach because he had simply taken "the most logical" route to his car. "This is the simplest example of why women don't trust police and why [orders] mean nothing," she says. "The overwhelming conclusion I have gotten from the court system - from the child protection systems, from the family violence systems, from the policing systems - is that unless you're experiencing the absolute worst of the worst, and even then, we probably won't help you." Claire was fortunate to be supported, both emotionally and financially, by her family. But she says many women aren't so lucky and "are essentially dropped on their asses and have to start over". "I think a lot of people start the process and go, 'This is f---ed, there's no point'," she says. "There is no point because nobody actually does anything and you're kind of left on your own to figure it out." 'Psychological torture of waiting' Like Claire, Olivia is disillusioned with the system after her former partner was convicted of multiple breaches of a protection order. It took police over a week and a half to serve him with that order and for it to take effect. Olivia acknowledges demands on the system but says the anxiety of waiting was unbearable during a time of extreme stress, change and uncertainty. The victim had already fled interstate by the time her former life partner was served, an action she was warned would increase her risk. The ACT Magistrates Court, where family violence orders are sought. Picture by Karleen Minney "The psychological torture of waiting, knowing that your risk could go through the roof at any minute, and you're expecting it ASAP," she says. "Every day you're just waiting for the phone call and you don't know when it's going to come." Olivia says the only thing the order being served did was give her more official recourse and force police to take her seriously if the man did something that was "not lethal". "But when your fear is that it's going to be lethal, it doesn't exactly do much for that. Does it?" she says. She escaped the relationship after making a startling and confronting discovery about her partner. "I went to the lawyer, and they called in [the Domestic Violence Crisis Service], and I didn't go home again," she says. "And then [my child] didn't go home again, so we didn't get to bring anything with us. We had what we were wearing when we left and then we went into hiding, effectively." An application form for an ACT family violence order. Picture supplied Olivia was later forced to wait multiple days before she could make a formal statement about the order's breaches and the man could subsequently be arrested. Coercive control Since leaving her former partner, Olivia and her child have been frequently displaced. "Relocating permanently, relocating temporarily, is all part of the considerations with safety planning and a very real aspect impacting people in this situation," she says. "[People incur] additional expenses with travel or the disruption to your life, to children's lives, to education, to your social connections, to your family, to your pets, to your home." According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, 38 per cent of clients using specialist homelessness services in 2022-23 had experienced family and domestic violence. But Olivia says there is another part of her experience not getting enough coverage in the national conversation around violence. She believes there is a poor community understanding of coercive control, a pattern of abusive behaviour designed to undermine another person's autonomy. "I spent years in this relationship asking, 'Is this coercive control?' I know logically and rationally it is," she says. "But you don't trust your judgement." Olivia says perpetrators like her ex can hide their abuse from everyone outside the relationship, including police. ACT Policing says while coercive control is not criminalised in the ACT, it acknowledges it as a 'concerning behaviour and a risk factor'. Picture by Karleen Minney "He will present as very polite, very agreeable. And then he will manipulate that," she says. While a protection order can be sought over the controlling conduct in the ACT, the jurisdiction has not yet made coercive control a standalone criminal offence. Some local advocates believe the territory government should wait for greater community understanding before introducing laws , while others say the ACT is needlessly falling behind . But for Olivia, the "law is not good enough" and the territory government needs to criminalise coercive control as soon as possible because "lives are at stake". Based on her experience, the victim questions whether those working in the justice system are appropriately trained. "I just don't know that the police understand the perpetrator could completely believe they're the victim, wholeheartedly, genuinely believe they're the victim," she says. "They're going to behave like a victim, in a sense. But it's only with the specialist knowledge around coercive control you're going to pick up things in the way they present their victim side." An ACT Policing spokesperson said all new officers undertake an extensive domestic and family violence training package delivered with the assistance of external non-governmental organisations and academics. "This package educates new police on coercive control and equips police to identify and respond to coercive control in domestic and family violence situations," they said. Police are preparing to launch a new domestic and family violence investigations unit . "New investigators, amongst other things, will also receive training on trauma-informed policing methodologies," they said. "ACT Policing expects to take this opportunity to further enhance the training it provides all police on misidentification." 'Low risk' But Olivia also believes a lack of information about her experience and the nuances around coercive control affected the community-based jail sentence her perpetrator received. "The court deemed him low risk of reoffending," she says, also noting the magistrate's focus on the man's lack of criminal history. "I was horrified by that. On what planet could someone possibly make that comment?" DVCS chief executive officer Sue Webeck. Picture by Sitthixay Ditthavong Earlier this year, Domestic Violence Crisis Service chief executive Sue Webeck said she hoped the territory was listening to those harmed by the justice system. "There is a really big disconnect at the moment between what we as a society hope happens to keep people in our community safe versus what the courts and policing do and respond to," she told this masthead. "You cannot change an institutional culture from within the institution. "You need to bring outside frontline expertise into the conversation." Support is available for those who may be distressed. Phone Domestic Violence Crisis Service 6280 0900; Lifeline 13 11 14; MensLine 1300 789 978; 1800-RESPECT 1800 737 732. Share Facebook Twitter Whatsapp Email Copy Tim Piccione Court reporter Tim is a journalist with the Canberra Times covering the ACT courts. He came to the nation's capital via the Daily Advertiser in Wagga. Contact: tim.piccione@canberratimes.com.au. Tim is a journalist with the Canberra Times covering the ACT courts. He came to the nation's capital via the Daily Advertiser in Wagga. Contact: tim.piccione@canberratimes.com.au. More from Court and Crime 'Just a piece of paper': Domestic violence orders don't make Claire and Olivia safe 54m ago Young people being targeted by sexual harassment predators Yes, a small number die from vaccines. We can't let it play into anti-vax hands Man caught on CCTV allegedly robbing Manuka Coles during minute of silence Parents' joy as mementoes of dead son are returned after grave theft Racism sadly reminiscent of my experience finally called outIf you’re looking to spread a little Christmas cheer over the holidays, these white elephant gifts will bring plenty of smiles and laughs. While not the traditional heartfelt gifts of Christmas, a white elephant gift is meant to poke a little fun and create some giggles. These outlandish gifts often playfully tease about a quirky personality trait or hobby — giving you an opportunity to have a little fun for the holidays. So, no matter if you’re shopping for your co-worker, friend, or family, we’ve curated some of the top white elephant gifts you can snag on Amazon. These gag gifts are sure to cause some massive giggles and jabs in all the right places when these. big surprises are opened for Christmas. White Elephant gifts you can get at the last minute on Amazon Here are some of our favorite white elephant gifts to give for Christmas this year and even a few to keep on hand as a hearty joke throughout the year. Cassette Tape AirPods Case Cover Amazon Price: $14 Keep the tunes rolling with this vintage-style AirPods Pro cassette tape case cover that protects and hopefully prevents misplacing those earbuds over the holidays.. LEGO Abstract Wall Art Kit Amazon Price: $50 Create some magic this Christmas by giving an abstract art piece with this LEGO building set . Magic 8 Ball Amazon Price: $14, instead of $15 This blast from the past toy answers those difficult life questions with a nostalgic shake or you can “ask again later.” Golf Pen Desktop Game Amazon Price: $10, instead of $13 We’re not “golfing” around with this gift that will keep that golf pro’s putting game sharp with golf clubs that double as pens, miniature golf balls and a golf course gift box. Retro Record Coasters Amazon Price: $14, instead of $20 This retro gift is perfect for the music fan. They can rock out to their favorite tunes while these throwback record coasters , with vinyl record player holder, prevent a party mishap. Pickle-Flavored Cotton Candy Amazon Price: $10 Yes, there’s such a thing and that pickle-loving freak on your list will savor every bite of this pickle-flavored treat . Snoop Dogg Cookbook Amazon Price: $14, instead of $45 This bestselling cookbook will be a hit with foodies “for shizzle.” Bluetooth Banana Phone Amazon Price: $40, instead of $50 Your friends will think this gift is “bananas” when they take calls and play music on this Bluetooth handset . Plus, this “appealing present” can be bought in a bunch of three . The Fuzzies Stacking Game Amazon Price: $15 This addicting game will keep them busy during the holidays with the limitless ability to stack these fuzzies from head to toe. Cat Microwave Heating Pad Amazon Price: $19 Any cat parent will adore this microwave heating pad in the shape of a cat to help knead out those sore muscles — minus the claws. Grinch Socks Amazon Price: $8 (20% off coupon available) There’s a Grinch in every family and you can surprise yours with these festive socks for Christmas. Food Decision Dice Amazon Price: $15 This is the perfect Christmas present for the person who can’t ever decide what they want to eat. With a quick roll of the dice , this gag gift will prevent arguments and hunger pains. Bicycle Pizza Cutter Amazon Price: $20, instead of $25 This bicycle pizza cutter will cruise its way into the heart of every pizza lover and we “crust” you’ll love giving it as a Christmas gift this year too. Bad Opinions Card Game Amazon Price $25 The ideal card game for a family member who has an opinion about everything. Bob Ross Chia Pet Amazon Price: $25 There’s an artist in all of us, and this Bob Ross Chia Pet will inspire anyone’s creative side this Christmas. Nothing Gift Amazon Price: $14 For the person on your list that has it all and says they don’t want anything for Christmas. This gift is literally — nothing . The Dad Joke 3000 Amazon Price: $20 He’s got a million of them and now he’ll have even more dad jokes on demand with the push of a button. Gracula Garlic Crusher Amazon Price: $19, instead of $23 Gift this kitchen helper to the family cook to ward off vampires all year long, with a simple twist at mealtime. OREO Ultimate Dunking Gift Set Amazon Price: $25, instead of $28 The cookie monster in the family can indulge on their OREO obsession with this dunking kit that includes cookies, a mug, a cookie holder, tongs, and a napkin. Bat Wine & Beer Opener Amazon Price: $15, instead of $35 There’s no “bats” about it, that wine-lover friend will appreciate the thought put into this batty gift. Heating Eye Massager Amazon Price: $53, instead of $100 (5% off coupon available) This not-so-subtle eye massager may look futuristic, but its stress-reliving abilities will comfort the tired eyes of a friend. The Best Gift Guides of 2024 15 coworker gift ideas for your next office holiday party 20 unique gifts for the boyfriend who has everything 20 Harry Potter gifts to buy for the muggle in your life 16 gift ideas for ‘Nightmare Before Christmas’ fans 20 travel gifts for the jetsetter in your life Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com . Dawn Magyar can be reached at dmagyar@njadvancemedia.com . Have a tip? Tell us at nj.com/tips .
Five Point Holdings, LLC ( NYSE:FPH – Get Free Report ) was the target of a significant increase in short interest in December. As of December 15th, there was short interest totalling 87,100 shares, an increase of 28.3% from the November 30th total of 67,900 shares. Based on an average daily volume of 507,900 shares, the days-to-cover ratio is currently 0.2 days. Approximately 0.2% of the shares of the company are short sold. Five Point Price Performance FPH opened at $3.58 on Friday. The business has a 50 day moving average price of $3.86 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $3.49. The company has a market capitalization of $530.88 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of 5.11 and a beta of 1.45. Five Point has a 1-year low of $2.60 and a 1-year high of $4.39. Five Point ( NYSE:FPH – Get Free Report ) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, October 17th. The company reported $0.07 earnings per share for the quarter. The business had revenue of $17.01 million during the quarter. Five Point had a return on equity of 2.57% and a net margin of 26.19%. Insider Activity at Five Point Hedge Funds Weigh In On Five Point Large investors have recently made changes to their positions in the business. XTX Topco Ltd bought a new stake in shares of Five Point in the 3rd quarter worth approximately $70,000. Pure Financial Advisors LLC bought a new position in shares of Five Point in the third quarter valued at $73,000. Jane Street Group LLC bought a new position in shares of Five Point in the third quarter valued at $76,000. Virtu Financial LLC acquired a new stake in shares of Five Point during the 3rd quarter valued at $105,000. Finally, WINTON GROUP Ltd boosted its stake in shares of Five Point by 89.3% during the 2nd quarter. WINTON GROUP Ltd now owns 36,452 shares of the company’s stock worth $107,000 after acquiring an additional 17,196 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors own 38.09% of the company’s stock. About Five Point ( Get Free Report ) Five Point Holdings, LLC, through its subsidiary, Five Point Operating Company, LP, owns and develops mixed-use and planned communities in Orange County, Los Angeles County, and San Francisco County. The company operates in four segments: Valencia, San Francisco, Great Park, and Commercial. It sells residential and commercial land sites to homebuilders, commercial developers, and commercial buyers; operates and owns a commercial office, research and development, medical campus, and other properties; and provides development and property management services. Featured Stories Receive News & Ratings for Five Point Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Five Point and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter .If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, The Hollywood Reporter may receive an affiliate commission. Bag charms are back in a big way, and they’re converting even the most simplistic dressers to a maximalist aesthetic. From the runway to social media to street style, this undeniably fun accessory seems to have everyone in a chokehold. On TikTok, the hashtag “birkinify” is trending, and describes the act of adorning one’s handbag — or other — with charms, keychains, twillies and beads. Dua Lipa and are just two famous faces spotted with decked out Birkin bags, and Gigi Hadid recently with an assortment of charms, including her coveted . Below, we rounded up 17 bag charms that are the epitome of playful meets chic, from a variety of independent designers and large houses like Loewe, Gucci and Prada. Plus, they make the perfect or stocking stuffer. Available in three charm varieties. The engraved brass charm opens to reveal a mirror. Coach makes some of the best in the game. Select 10 beads from dozens of choices: hearts, faces, disco balls, snacks and so on. While likely won’t arrive in time for the holidays, it may very well be worth the wait. For a limited time, a 20 percent discount will be automatically applied at checkout. A similar look without the customization. And . Timeless. Gigi Hadid, Dua Lipa, Kendall Jenner, Justin Bieber and Blackpink are just a few famous fans of . Check out more of Susan Alexandra’s sweet . An Anthro bestseller. No one does bag charms quite like Loewe. Four charms in one. Part of Urban Outfitters’ exclusive collection of . Use code CHEERS for 25 percent off. A match made in leather and shearling heaven. One more cherry charm for good measure. Ending with a bang. More colorways available at . THR Newsletters Sign up for THR news straight to your inbox every day More from The Hollywood Reporter
Why Is Ulta (ULTA) Stock Rocketing Higher Today
(BPT) - Has it been a while since you purchased a new TV? You might be surprised by how far TV technology has come since you bought your last set! Today's smart televisions offer dramatic improvements in picture quality and home screens that are far easier to navigate. Plus, they come with a host of cool features like voice control that you may not even know about. It's time to discover what you've been missing — and if you're asking yourself where to start, the Fire TV Buyer Insights Report can help. This independent study surveyed over 2,000 recent purchasers of smart TVs to learn everything from where they did their product research to why they decided to buy. With the holidays almost upon us, the insights in this report can help guide you as you kick off your seasonal shopping. Whether you're buying a gift, hosting a holiday gathering or looking for the perfect game-day screen, read on to find the best TV for your needs. How do you find the right TV? Here's how recent purchasers did it. When it comes to buying a new TV, there are several factors you'll want to consider, starting with who's going to be using it. The study found that spouses (36%), kids (13%), and even grandparents (1%) were involved in the purchase process, so be sure to keep your home's audience in mind. Beyond that, you'll also want to think about: Room size Smart TVs range in size from a 32-inch screen all the way up to a whopping 100 inches or more. To determine the right screen size for your room, follow this guideline: Small rooms: 32"–43" screen Medium rooms: 43"–55" screen Large rooms: 55+" screen As for viewing distance, divide the screen's diameter by 8 to get the ideal viewing distance in feet. For example, a 32-inch screen should be watched from about 4 feet away, while you'll want to be about 8 feet away from a 65-inch screen. Usage How you plan to use your new TV should play a large part in your decision-making process. If you're always looking for the latest show or movie to watch, your smart TV should offer optimal access to the latest streaming services. Gamers will experience better play on a TV with a high refresh rate, while sports enthusiasts will want to watch the big game on a set with smooth motion handling. Connected TV experience One of the most important considerations is how you'll use TV. In the study, 83% of TV purchasers said that easy access to content was one of the things they liked best about their new TV. But beyond being an all-in-one source for entertainment, your smart TV should also play well with other smart home devices. For instance, Fire TV allows you to pair compatible devices seamlessly like video doorbells, smart home devices, and more. And with select models, Fire TV's Ambient Experience can turn the biggest screen in your home into a beautiful, always-on smart display rotating through beautiful art, personal photos, and glanceable information like calendars and reminders. Knowledge is power Before you land on the perfect TV, you'll need to do a little research first. The study found that only 12% of shoppers bought their TV on an impulse, while 65% engaged in some form of product research. Most (82%) respondents conducted some or all of their research online for instant access to smart TV reviews and feature comparisons. In fact, over half of respondents who searched online mentioned digital retailers like Amazon as a great source for honest ratings and buyer reviews. Timing is everything According to the study, the time from research to purchase takes about two weeks, so plan ahead — especially if you're thinking about giving a TV as a holiday gift. There are also some great deals available during this time of year, so keep an eye out for sales and promotional offers. The big picture A new TV is a big purchase, so don't make it an impulsive one. Take the time to do your research and remember that everyone takes a different path to finding the perfect TV. Whether your search begins online, offline, or with a mix of both, it will end with a next-level viewing experience that's just right for the way you watch.
Javier Hasse was recognized as Cannabis Journalist of the Year at The Emjays International Cannabis Awards 2024 in Las Vegas on Thursday. The event is part of MJBizCon ‘s annual conference, now in its 13th year. For the second year, nominees for each of the 26 categories were based on voting by the public while a panel of industry leaders helped select winners of The Emjays . Javier Hasse Hasse, who is head of content for Benzinga Cannabis and CEO of Spanish-language news site El Planteo , has brought about significant strides in the cannabis industry and culture. His dedication to reporting on cannabis, hemp, CBD and psychedelics is expressed in over 5,000 articles published across major outlets like Benzinga, CNN, CNBC, Rolling Stone and Forbes. “Javier’s writing about all aspects of cannabis consistently underscores the importance and growing acceptance of marijuana throughout the continent,” said Maureen Meehan one of Hasse’s colleagues at Benzinga Cannabis. “Both culturally and politically, the positive evolution of cannabis over these recent years is due in part to Javier’s insightful journalistic work.” Hasse authored the best-selling book, " Start Your Own Cannabis Business ," and co-authored “A Guide to Medical Cannabis: Your Roadmap to Understanding and Using Cannabis and CBD for Health , “ with Benzinga staff writer Nicolás Rodriguez . The latter was published on November 5, 2024 by Sheldon Press. A senior contributor to Forbes and member of the Rolling Stone Culture Council , Hasse was recently included in the High Times 100 list, highlighting his influence and dedication to the cannabis community. Hasse joined Josh Kesselman , CEO of RAW Rolling Papers in one of the many presentations at MJBizCon where their topic was “Embracing Your Brand’s Unique Magic,” in which they discussed innovative branding strategies for the cannabis ancillary market. Hasse shared his expertise in shaping media narratives, offering valuable insights to entrepreneurs aiming to build iconic and authentic brands. Other Honorees At The Emjays Awards 2024 Other industry figures were recognized with Emjays International Cannabis Awards include: Business Service of the Year: Sapphire Risk Advisory Group Financial Services of the Year: Green Check Verified Business Software of the Year: KayaPush Law Firm of the Year: Vicente Retail Cannabis Brand of the Year: Zamnesia Retail Services of the Year: Temeka Group Retail Software/Tech Company of the Year: Cova PR Agency of the Year: Grasslands Marketing Agency of the Year: PufCreativ Content Creator of the Year: Sara Payan, Planted With Sara Cultivation Technology (Hardware) of the Year: Fluence Testing Lab of the Year: SC Labs Cultivation Software of the Year: TSRgrow, GrowHub Packaging/Printing Company of the Year: Gold Leaf Print & Packaging Cultivation (Non-tech) Company of the Year: Royal Queen Seeds Cannabis Infused Brand of the Year: Wyld Extraction/Concentrate Brand of the Year: The Clear Cannabis (Flower) Brand of the Year: American Weed Co. CBD/Hemp Brand of the Year: Chime & Chill Consumer Gear/Tech Product of the Year: Boveda Vaporizer Product of the Year: Venty, by Storz & Bickel Advocacy Organization of the Year: Last Prisoner Project Best Packaging Design: Jeeter x Marley Best Marketing Campaign or Collaboration of the Year: DaySavers Stoner Dream Job Best Newcomer Brand: 55Plus The Emjays event is produced by Farechild Events in association with MJBizCon. Read more here . Read Next: ‘Oregonians Have High Standards When It Comes To Their Weed’ Says Mike Tyson, As Products Launch Throughout State © 2024 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.The gunman who stalked and killed UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson fled New York City by bus, police officials told CNN on Friday. Video of the suspected shooter leaving the scene of the shooting Wednesday showed him riding a bicycle to Central Park and later taking a taxi cab to a bus depot, Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny told CNN. Here's the latest: Police believe gunman who killed UnitedHealthcare CEO has left New York City The gunman who killed the CEO of the largest U.S. health insurer may have fled the city on a bus, New York City police officials told CNN on Friday. People are also reading... Video of the suspected shooter leaving the scene of the shooting Wednesday showed him riding a bicycle to Central Park and later taking a taxi cab to a bus depot, Chief of Detectives Joseph Kenny told CNN. “We have reason to believe that the person in question has left New York City,” Commissioner Jessica Tisch said. Gunman’s steps after killing UnitedHealthcare’s CEO give police new clues The gunman who killed the CEO of the largest U.S. health insurer made sure to wear a mask during the shooting yet left a trail of evidence in view of the nation’s biggest city and its network of security cameras that have aided authorities piecing together his movements and his identity. A law enforcement official said Friday that new surveillance footage shows the suspect riding the subway and visiting establishments in Manhattan and provided more clues about his actions in the days before he ambushed UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson . The gunman’s whereabouts and identity remain unknown Friday, as did the reason for Wednesday’s killing. New York City police say evidence firmly points to it being a targeted attack . ▶ Read more about the search for the gunman For many companies, investor meetings are seen as a risk In many companies, investor meetings like the one UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson was walking to when he was fatally shot are viewed as very risky because details on the location and who will be speaking are highly publicized. “It gives people an opportunity to arrive well in advance and take a look at the room, take a look at how people would probably come and go out of a location,” said Dave Komendat, president of DSKomendat Risk Management Services, which is based in the greater Seattle area. Some firms respond by beefing up security. For example, tech companies routinely require everyone attending a major event, such as Apple’s annual unveiling of the next iPhone or a shareholder meeting, to go through airport-style security checkpoints before entering. Others forgo in-person meetings with shareholders. ▶ Read more about how companies protect their leaders Police have obtained other surveillance images of the person wanted for questioning Those images include New York’s subway system, a law enforcement official said. In establishments where the person was captured on camera, he always appeared to pay with cash, the official said. The official wasn’t authorized to discuss details of the ongoing investigation and spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity. — Mike Balsamo Another health insurer taking precautions after the shooting Medica, a Minnesota-based nonprofit health care firm that serves 1.5 million customers in 12 states, said it’s temporarily closing all six locations. The firm has offices in Minnesota, Wisconsin, Nebraska and North Dakota, and employs about 3,000 people. Employees will work from home, Medica spokesman Greg Bury said in an email Friday. “The safety of Medica employees is our top priority and we have increased security both for all of our employees,” a statement from Medica said. “Although we have received no specific threats related to our campuses, our office buildings will be temporarily closed out of an abundance of caution.” Bury also said biographical information on the company’s executives was taken down from its website as a precaution. Government health insurance provider Centene Corp. says its Investor Day will now be virtual The insurer cited the fatal shooting of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson in its announcement about the Dec. 12 event. “All of us at Centene are deeply saddened by Brian Thompson’s death and want to express our support for all of those affected. Health insurance is a big industry and a small community; many members of the CenTeam crossed paths with Brian during their careers,” Centene CEO Sarah M. London said in a news release. “He was a person with a deep sense of empathy and clear passion for improving access to care. Our hearts are with his family and his colleagues during this difficult time.” Centene Corp. has grown in recent years to become the largest insurer in Medicaid, the state- and federally funded program that covers care for people with low incomes. Insurers manage Medicaid coverage for states, and Centene has more than 13 million people enrolled in that coverage. UnitedHealth Group says it’s focused on supporting Brian Thompson’s family The insurance company also said it’s focused on ensuring the safety of employees and assisting investigators. “While our hearts are broken, we have been touched by the huge outpouring of kindness and support in the hours since this horrific crime took place,” the company said. NY Mayor Eric Adams provided no new information on investigation’s progress during interviews But he said Friday that he’s confident police will arrest the shooter. “We are on the right road to apprehend him and bring him to justice,” Adams said on TV station WPIX. Hours after the shooting, UnitedHealthcare removed photographs of its executives from its website Later, it removed their names and biographies entirely. Investigators believe the suspect may have traveled to NY last month on a bus that originated in Atlanta Police and federal agents have been collecting information from Greyhound in an attempt to identify the suspect and are working to determine whether he purchased the ticket to New York in late November, a law enforcement official said. Investigators were also trying to obtain additional information from a cellphone recovered from a pedestrian plaza through which the shooter fled. Killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO spotlights complex challenge companies face in protecting top brass The fatal shooting of Brian Thompson while walking alone on a New York City sidewalk has put a spotlight on the widely varied approaches companies take to protect their leaders against threats. Experts say today’s political, economic and technological climate is only going to make the job of evaluating threats against executives and taking action to protect them even more difficult, experts say. Some organizations have a protective intelligence group that uses digital tools such as machine learning or artificial intelligence to comb through online comments to detect threats not only on social media platforms such as X but also on the dark web, says Komendat. They look for what’s being said about the company, its employees and its leadership to uncover risks. ▶ Read more about the steps companies take to protect their leadership Police test DNA and fingerprints on discarded bottle as they hunt for UnitedHealthcare CEO’s killer Police said Thursday they found a water bottle and protein bar wrapper from a trash can near the scene of the ambush and think the suspect bought them from a Starbucks minutes before the shooting. The items were being tested by the city’s medical examiner. Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission. Get local news delivered to your inbox! Subscribe to our Daily Headlines newsletter.Let me tell a story. So, I had a relative who was equally from a relatively wealthy home. Years passed, and the patriarch of the home died. This particular relative was the prodigal daughter of the home; she was simply the black sheep... In Africa and Nigeria, particularly, funerals are not just party affairs but also family affairs. Bent on making sure that she wouldn’t be left out, Moji told everyone not to worry about the casket that she would purchase. On D-Day, lo and behold, there was an elegant casket. No one believed Moji, the black sheep, was capable of that. The family members poured encomiums on her. Burial done and dusted! Many days passed, and some individuals beseeched the family home; they introduced themselves as the funeral home that supplied the casket, that it was picked on credit, and that they had waited for a while and since payment was not forthcoming they had to come personally to collect their money. Apparently, Moji got the casket (Yes, on credit). Eventually, the family paid for it. Many absurd stories have happened. The patriarch was buried in a casket and gone to his ancestors. Nigeria is Moji! Now come with me... let us finish the story. In the labyrinth of challenges confronting Nigeria, recent tragedies have cast a glaring spotlight on the multifaceted issues bedeviling the nation. Over mere days, three separate stampedes during Christmas charity events resulted in the deaths of at least 67 individuals, including scores of children. The events, intended to bring relief during a season of cheer, turned into devastating reminders of a nation at odds with itself—where poverty, desperation, and psychosocial dysfunction intertwine to produce a reality that is both tragic and absurd. On December 18, 2024, the city of Ibadan, known for its vibrant culture and historic landmarks, became the site of unimaginable sorrow. A Christmas funfair aimed at providing cash handouts, free food, and scholarships turned deadly as crowd control failed amidst a massive turnout. What should have been a celebration of generousity became a catastrophe, claiming the lives of 35 children. The event, organised by a local figure in collaboration with a women’s foundation and a radio station, lacked the safety measures necessary to manage the overwhelming crowd. Tragedy struck again in Anambra and Abuja, where similar charity events spiraled into chaos. In Anambra, 22 lives were lost as people scrambled for food distributed by a philanthropist. In Abuja, a church-organised charity event saw 10 individuals perish in yet another avoidable disaster. These incidents, spread across different regions, expose a systemic issue—Nigeria’s inability to manage desperation in an era of escalating economic hardship. While it is easy to attribute these tragedies solely to poverty, such an analysis would barely scratch the surface. Yes, the cost-of-living crisis in Nigeria is acute, with inflation, unemployment, and widespread poverty forcing many to the brink. But these events also reveal a deeper psychosocial crisis. The desperation driving people to risk their lives for food or meager handouts stems from a collective psyche battered by years of systemic neglect. These stampedes are not merely the byproducts of economic hardship; they are also the result of a national mindset shaped by scarcity and survivalism. In a society where the majority feel perpetually shortchanged, opportunities—even those as simple as free rice—are perceived as zero-sum games where only the swiftest or strongest survive. Charity in Nigeria often borders on performative philanthropy, where organisers prioritise optics over substance. Many of these events are designed as public relations spectacles, with little regard for the safety or dignity of beneficiaries. The chaotic scenes at these events are emblematic of a larger failure: a culture that emphasises appearances while neglecting structural solutions to systemic issues. At the core of these tragedies lies a network of systemic failures: 1. Regulatory Lapses Despite repeated occurrences of stampedes, there is no clear regulatory framework for managing public gatherings. Crowd control is treated as an afterthought, and safety protocols are virtually nonexistent. 2. Governance Without Accountability Governmental responses to these incidents often follow a predictable script—arrests are made, committees are formed, and investigations are promised. Yet, tangible changes are rarely implemented. This cycle of negligence and impunity exacerbates the problem, leaving citizens vulnerable to future disasters. 3. Economic Inequities The cost-of-living crisis is not just an economic issue; it is a governance failure. Years of mismanagement have created an environment where necessities are inaccessible to large swathes of the population. Charity, therefore, becomes a lifeline rather than a supplement, exposing the absence of effective social safety nets. Critics may argue that these tragedies are inevitable in a nation plagued by poverty. However, reducing the issue to poverty alone ignores the psychosocial and cultural dimensions. Consider this: even in resource-constrained societies, dignity, order, and humanity can be preserved through planning and accountability. The recurring stampedes in Nigeria are not just about scarcity—they reflect a failure of imagination and empathy. It is high time Nigerians interrogate the ethos surrounding public charity. While organisers shoulder significant blame, the public also plays a role in perpetuating the chaos. A sense of entitlement combined with years of neglect has bred a survivalist mentality that often disregards communal welfare. This is not to victim-blame but to highlight the need for a societal shift towards collective responsibility and discipline. To prevent a recurrence of such tragedies, Nigeria must take a multipronged approach that addresses the root causes while implementing immediate safeguards: 1. Economic and Social Reforms – Invest in policies that create sustainable employment opportunities. – Strengthen social safety nets to reduce dependence on ad hoc charity events. – Address inflation and the rising cost of living through sound fiscal and monetary policies. 2. Regulation of Public Gatherings – Enforce strict guidelines for organising public events, including mandatory crowd control measures and risk assessments. – Introduce penalties for organisers who fail to adhere to safety protocols. 3. Community Education – Launch awareness campaigns to educate the public on the risks of overcrowding and the importance of orderly conduct at public events. 4. Rethinking Charity – Shift from performative charity to systemic solutions, focusing on sustainable poverty alleviation rather than one-off handouts. 5. Accountability Mechanisms – Establish independent bodies to investigate public tragedies and hold both private and governmental entities accountable. The irony of these tragedies lies in their timing—during the season of goodwill and cheer. In a nation where the phrase “we are managing” has become a mantra, these incidents highlight how deeply embedded the culture of managing chaos has become. Nigerians have a knack for finding humour even in dire situations, but some absurdities, like stampedes over food, demand outrage rather than resigned laughter. These tragedies should not be reduced to another chapter in Nigeria’s book of woes. Instead, they should serve as a rallying cry for change. To move beyond the absurdity, we must embrace a collective resolve to dismantle the systems that perpetuate poverty, desperation, and neglect. Nigeria’s story need not always be one of chaos and loss. With intentional reforms, a shift in cultural attitudes, and a commitment to accountability, we can write a new narrative—one where charity uplifts rather than endangers and where the value of human life is truly upheld. Let this be the moment we refuse to normalise the absurd. Let this be the moment we demand better because Nigeria deserves more, and so do her people–Only time will tell.
City slumped to their seventh defeat in 10 games in all competitions as they were beaten 2-0 at Juventus in their latest European outing on Wednesday. Second-half goals from Dusan Vlahovic and Weston McKennie at the Allianz Stadium left Guardiola’s side languishing in 22nd place in the standings. Juventus beat Man City 💪 — UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) With just two games of the league phase remaining, a place in the top eight and automatic last-16 qualification looks beyond them and they face a battle just to stay in the top 24 and claim a play-off spot. City manager Guardiola said: “Of course I question myself but I’m stable in good moments and bad moments. “I try to find a way to do it. I’m incredibly honest. If we play good (I say) we played good and today I thought we played good. “Our game will save us. We can do it. We conceded few chances compared to the Nottingham Forest game that we won. We’re making the right tempo. “We missed the last pass, did not arrive in the six-yard box (at the right time) or have the composure at the right moment. “But I love my team. This is life, it happens. Sometimes you have a bad period but I’m going to insist until we’re there.” City now face a crunch trip to Paris St Germain, who are also at risk of failing to qualify, next month. Guardiola accepts the top 24 is now the only aim. He said: “It’s the target. We need one point or three points. We go to Paris to try to do it and the last game at home.” Veteran midfielder Ilkay Gundogan said after the game he felt City were suffering from a loss of confidence but Guardiola dismissed his player’s comments. “I am not agreeing with Ilkay,” he said. “Of course it is tough but, except one or two games in this period, we’ve played good.” City now face a further test of their resolve as they host rivals Manchester United in a derby on Sunday. "We played well" Pep Guardiola trusts in his squad despite 2-0 loss to Juventus... 📺 & — Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) Gundogan told TNT Sports: “It (confidence) is a big part of it. That’s a mental issue as well. “You can see that sometimes we miss the ball or lose a duel and you see that we drop immediately and lose the rhythm. They (the opponents) don’t even need to do much but it has such a big effect on us right now. “Even more you have to do the simple things as good as possible and create and fluidity, then it’s work hard again. This is how you get confidence back – do the small and simple things, (but) in crucial moments at the moment we are always doing the wrong things.” Juventus coach Thiago Motta was pleased with the hosts’ performance, which boosted their hopes of making the top eight. “It was a deserved victory,” he said. “We had to defend as a team and be ready to attack with quality. “We have shown we can compete at this level and now we have to do it consistently.”
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