EDITOR'S NOTE: On Football analyzes the biggest topics in the NFL from week to week. No one wants to see any player take a vicious hit like the one that knocked Trevor Lawrence out of the game. It’s easy to agree on that point. Eliminating violent shots is the hard part. The NFL has instituted several rules to protect quarterbacks but football is a physical sport and players have to react instantly and make split-second decisions going at high speeds so injuries keep occurring. Lawrence was carted off the field in the first half of Jacksonville’s 23-20 loss to Houston on Sunday after Azeez Al-Shaair leveled the defenseless quarterback with a forearm to the facemask. The late hit put Lawrence in the fencing position — both fists clenched — and he stayed on the ground for several minutes, while a brawl ensued. Lawrence didn’t require hospitalization for his concussion but it’s unknown when he’ll return. “Thank you to everyone who has reached out/been praying for me,” Lawrence wrote on X. “I’m home and feeling better. Means a lot, thank you all.” Al-Shaair was ejected from the game and faces a fine and potential suspension after his latest unsportsmanlike penalty. The Texans' linebacker was flagged and later fined $11,255 for a late hit out of bounds on Titans running back Tony Pollard last week. He was fined earlier this year after he punched Bears running back Roschon Johnson on the sideline in Week 2. That occurred during a scuffle that started after his hard shot on quarterback Caleb Williams near the sideline that wasn’t flagged. Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence slides in front of Houston Texans linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair during the first half of a game on Sunday in Jacksonville, Fla. Lawrence was injured on the play. Al-Shaair once got away with grabbing Tom Brady by the throat on a pass rush in a game between the 49ers and Buccaneers. Outraged Jaguars players called Al-Shaair’s hit “dirty” and Texans coach DeMeco Ryans made it known he didn’t condone it. “It’s not what we’re coaching,” Ryans said. “Want to be smart in everything we do and not hurt the team, get a penalty there. Have to be smarter when the quarterback is going down. Unfortunate play. Not representative of who Azeez is. He’s a smart player, really great leader for us. We felt his presence not being there. His loss really affected us on the defensive side. Just not what we’re coaching. Didn’t want to see the melee and all the aftermath. That’s not what we’re about. Not representative of us. I’ll talk to Azeez, address him personally, and we’ll move forward from it.” Fox Sports color analyst Daryl Johnston, a former fullback for the Dallas Cowboys, didn’t hold back his criticism, calling it a “cheap shot.” “It’s everything you’re not supposed to do,” Johnston said. “Everything. You’ll see this in slow motion and Azeez Al-Shaair does everything you’re trying to prevent in this situation. It’s reckless. It’s disrespectful. There’s an honor that you give to your opponent on the football field and you respect him. And there’s opportunities to be physical and give big hits and play this game in that manner. And there’s other times when there’s a respect that you grant to your opponent.” Some former NFL quarterbacks blasted Al-Shaair on social media. “There is no place in the game of football for dirty hits like this one,” Robert Griffin III wrote on X. Chase Daniel called it “one of the dirtiest hits” he’s ever seen on a quarterback. Jacksonville Jaguars tight end Evan Engram, right, jumps on Houston Texans linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair after his late hit on quarterback Trevor Lawrence, bottom, during the first half of a game on Sunday in Jacksonville, Fla. Even defensive players struggled to defend Al-Shaair. “That was uncalled for,” Hall of Fame defensive lineman Michael Strahan said on Fox’s studio show while fellow Hall of Famer Howie Long agreed. But the play also sparked debate about the quarterback slide. Lawrence slid feet first, which signals that he’s giving himself up on the play. The NFL rulebook states: “A defender must pull up when a runner begins a feet-first slide.” But defensive players aren’t automatically penalized if they make contact with a sliding quarterback if they already committed and the contact is unavoidable. The rules state it’s a foul when “the defender makes forcible contact into the head or neck area of the runner with the helmet, shoulder, or forearm, or commits some other act that is unnecessary roughness.” Al-Shaair did that so he was penalized and will face other repercussions. Still, given the hard-hitting nature of the sport, it won’t be the last time this happens. When Caleb Williams took the field for the Chicago Bears' first regular season game against the Tennessee Titans, the anticipation for the rookie's debut game—possibly the most ever—was on full display. Despite a tough debut for the quarterback, the Bears secured a 24-17 win, a notable feat for the rookie. The victory made Williams the first #1 overall pick with a Week 1 win in over 20 years. Going forward this season, Williams is expected to eclipse C.J. Stroud's record-breaking 2023 rookie campaign with the Houston Texans. However, Stroud's success is an anomaly. Drafting a successful quarterback, especially one who is effective right away, is difficult. When teams have a high first-round draft pick, and they're coming off an unsuccessful few seasons, it's assumed that they will use their first pick on a quarterback . That player will assume the title of "the face of the franchise" and will get the central attention, win or lose. To see which quarterbacks have faced that challenge and triumphed, ATS.io compiled a ranking of the 10 best rookie quarterbacks since 1960 using data from StatHead . Rookies were defined as players who are in their first season of professional football and have not been on the roster of another professional team. Quarterbacks were ranked according to adjusted net yards per pass attempt, which quantifies efficient passing skill. Ties were broken using passer rating. Only rookie quarterbacks with at least 10 games played and 200 total passing attempts were considered. Since 1967, 130 quarterbacks have been drafted in the first round. Of those drafted, only 61 have won a playoff game as a starter, according to The Athletic, which used data from NFL Research . The biggest reason this success rate is not guaranteed is because there are differences between college and pro offensive systems. In the collegiate game, the ball is snapped at different points on the field, passing windows are wider, and defenders and linemen are not as quick, making the adjustment to the pro level more difficult. NFL scouts and general managers are gambling on what skills can be transferable and how long those adjustments might take, which is why some teams prefer redshirt quarterbacks to ease the transition. However, just because a team may not want to use their first-round pick on a quarterback, doesn't mean they can't find a diamond in the rough later in the draft. Think about Tom Brady, Russell Wilson, and Dak Prescott, all of which were not first-round picks, but have gone on to make a name for themselves in the NFL. - Adjusted net yards per pass attempt: 6.44 - Passer rating: 91.2 - Season stats: 3,271 yards, 21 touchdowns, 6 interceptions Coming out of college, Gardner Minshew was not a highly sought-after quarterback for NFL teams. He was drafted in the sixth round of the 2019 draft—a draft that was headlined by Kyler Murray, Dwayne Haskins, and Daniel Jones. Nonetheless, Minshew's rookie season with the Jacksonville Jaguars was filled with many accomplishments. He won Rookie of the Week seven times despite not winning NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year. Minshew also had the highest passer rating of any rookie quarterback that started in 2019. - Adjusted net yards per pass attempt: 6.77 - Passer rating: 93.7 - Season stats: 3,725 yards, 27 touchdowns, 14 interceptions Pressure was high for Baker Mayfield as the first overall pick in the 2018 draft. When he joined the Cleveland Browns, there was an expectation that once the team figured out the quarterback position, it could be playoff-ready. After trading for Jarvis Landry, a young wide receiver from the Miami Dolphins, in the offseason, the Browns were on their way. Mayfield's rookie season was filled with many firsts, and the Landry-Mayfield connection filled the stat sheet. Mayfield set the record for most passing touchdowns by a rookie quarterback in 2019 with 27 surpassing prior marks from Payton Manning and Russell Wilson. - Adjusted net yards per pass attempt: 6.84 - Passer rating: 98.3 - Season stats: 4,336 yards, 31 touchdowns, 10 interceptions Justin Herbert was the third quarterback selected in the 2020 NFL draft behind Joe Burrow and Tua Tagovailoa. As the No. 6 overall pick, expectations were high, but there was also an assumption that it would be a few years before Herbert's development would take shape. Then, Chargers starting quarterback Tyrod Taylor was accidentally punctured in the lung by a team doctor administering a painkiller before the second game of the season, and it wasn't clear what Taylor's status would be moving forward. When Herbert was given the nod to start minutes before the game, fans didn't know what to expect. Herbert shocked viewers when he threw for over 300 yards and only one interception in that game. He continued his strong rookie showing throughout the season and went on to win NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year. - Adjusted net yards per pass attempt: 6.93 - Passer rating: 98.1 - Season stats: 2,621 yards, 17 touchdowns, 11 interceptions Ben Roethlisberger was the third quarterback selected in his draft class behind the likes of Eli Manning and Philip Rivers—though fans wouldn't have been able to tell. From the moment Roethlisberger was called up by the Pittsburgh Steelers to play in his first game—Week 2 against the Baltimore Ravens—it was clear he had a special arm, gaining the nickname "Golden Arm." While the next several games were bumpy for Steelers fans, it was clear that Roethlisberger was the future of the franchise. The Steelers had a solid running game and its receiving core, led by Hines Ward, was one of the best in the league . Once Roethlisberger gained his footing a few games in, he was unstoppable. He led Pittsburgh to its best record ever: 15-1. He also started the season on an eight-game winning streak, becoming the first rookie to do so. Additionally, Roethlisberger became the first quarterback to win AP Offensive Rookie of the Year. - Adjusted net yards per pass attempt: 7.01 - Passer rating: 87.7 - Season stats: 3,440 yards, 16 touchdowns, 11 interceptions As the No. 3 overall pick in the 2008 NFL draft, there were high expectations on Matt Ryan's shoulders heading to the Atlanta Falcons. The Falcons were coming off back-to-back losing seasons and off-the-field legal troubles with its starting quarterback Michael Vick overshadowing the team's play. Ryan was expected to pick up the pieces. He did that immediately, leading the Falcons to an 11-5 record in his rookie season and becoming the clear favorite for NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year halfway through the season, which he went on to win. The tag team of Ryan and running back Michael Turner was one of the best offensive forces in the sport that season. - Adjusted net yards per pass attempt: 7.01 - Passer rating: 100 - Season stats: 3,118 yards, 26 touchdowns, 10 interceptions Russell Wilson was drafted in the third round of the 2012 NFL Draft by the Seattle Seahawks. Considering Robert Griffin III and Andrew Luck headlined the NFL Draft that year, it was not believed that Wilson would be a starter come Week 1, but that quickly changed. Going into the 2012 NFL Draft, Tarvaris Jackson was the Seattle Seahawks' starting quarterback, and the team signed NFL veteran quarterback Matt Flynn as an insurance policy on the injury-prone Jackson . It was assumed in the short term that either Jackson or Flynn would lead the franchise. Once training camp arrived, however, the Seahawks' quarterback position was uncertain. Jackson was traded to the Buffalo Bills, and Flynn was underwhelming at camp, forcing Head Coach Pete Carroll to take a gamble on his rookie quarterback, Wilson, in Week 1. Carroll, nor Wilson, ever looked back. Wilson was one of the best passing quarterbacks that season. He led the Seahawks to an 11-5 record and went on to win NFL Rookie of the Year. - Adjusted net yards per pass attempt: 7.39 - Passer rating: 96 - Season stats: 2,210 yards, 20 touchdowns, 6 interceptions When Dan Marino was drafted by the Miami Dolphins in 1983, the NFL looked very different. Running the ball was the name of the game. The quarterback would either run the football himself at the line of scrimmage or hand it off to the running back, and the offensive linemen would claw and push the pile forward as the runner powered his legs. It was not a pretty sight. However, Marino took a different approach, throwing the ball with a unique quick release for that era. He led the Dolphins to a 9-1 record after replacing David Woodley midway through his rookie season, ending with a 12-4 record. He went on to win Rookie of the Year and was the first rookie to start a Pro Bowl. - Adjusted net yards per pass attempt: 7.47 - Passer rating: 100.8 - Season stats: 4,108 yards, 23 touchdowns, 5 interceptions When C.J. Stroud was drafted No. 2 by the Houston Texans last year, there were a lot of questions, not about his ability, but about the organization that he would be playing for. The Texans were coming off of a 3-13-1 season in 2022, finishing with the worst record in the league, and a lot of volatility in its front office. The team fired its head coach and a top executive before the draft. Weeks later, the team hired former Texans linebacker DeMeco Ryans as its next head coach. While Ryans is a defensive-minded coach, Stroud was seen as a key ingredient to the team's success since Ryans hired his coaching staff around the quarterback. Stroud led the NFL in yards and TD-to-interception ratio during his rookie season, which is an efficiency statistic considering he didn't get his first interception until his sixth regular-season game against the New Orleans Saints. While Stroud was a part of the league MVP conversation for most of the season, he didn't ultimately win the title. However, he was named 2023 NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year, and his rookie season is seen as one of the best in NFL history. - Adjusted net yards per pass attempt: 7.47 - Passer rating: 102.4 - Season stats: 3,200 yards, 20 touchdowns, 5 interceptions Leading into the 2012 draft, it wasn't a matter of whether Washington would pick a quarterback, it was a matter of who. After several seasons of mediocre quarterback play and losing seasons from the likes of Jason Campbell, Donovan McNabb, and Rex Grossman, it was time for a new face to lead the offense. At No. 2, Washington selected Robert Griffin III making him the second quarterback selected in the 2012 NFL draft behind Andrew Luck. Griffin started his rookie year campaign with one of the best performances football fans have ever seen. He completed 19 of his 26 pass attempts for 320 yards and 2 touchdowns, beating the New Orleans Saints. That game earned him the highest passer rating by a rookie ever, 158.3. He now shares that record with Kirk Cousins and Marcus Mariota. Griffin III went on to win NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year in 2012. - Adjusted net yards per pass attempt: 7.86 - Passer rating: 104.9 - Season stats: 3,667 yards, 23 touchdowns, 4 interceptions Dak Prescott is statistically the best rookie quarterback ever, racking up the best passer rating as a rookie. After losing his first game, he led the Cowboys on an 11-game winning streak. That season, he led the team to its fourth-best season ever with a 13-3 record. Prescott was the 2016 NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year and became the first NFL quarterback to be drafted in the fourth round or later to start all 16 regular season games. Data reporting by Karim Noorani. Story editing by Shanna Kelly. Additional editing by Kelly Glass. Copy editing by Robert Wickwire. Photo selection by Clarese Moller. This story originally appeared on ATS.io and was produced and distributed in partnership with Stacker Studio. Get local news delivered to your inbox!SHAREHOLDER ALERT: The M&A Class Action Firm Investigates the Merger of TuHURA Biosciences, Inc. - HURA
Billionaire and nominee to become the next head of NASA Jared Isaacman is certainly a fan of SpaceX having relied on Elon Musk’s company for his two trips to space. But he shared the love across SpaceX competitors during a commencement speech for the fall graduation class at Daytona Beach’s Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University on Thursday. The ERAU alumnus earned a fortune as founder and CEO of credit-card processing company Shift4 Payments, which allowed him to pursue his love of aircraft and eventually spaceflight. He received a bachelor’s degree in aeronautics in 2011, and was given an honorary doctorate at the ceremony while also encouraging the graduating class to “a journey into one of the most interesting and really opportune times that aerospace has ever seen.” It’s the second time he’s spoken to ERAU graduates. The first time was soon after his return from his first spaceflight on the Inspiration4 mission in 2021, the first orbital spaceflight with a completely commercial crew. His most recent spaceflight this past September on the Polaris Dawn mission allowed Isaacman to become the first person to perform a commercial spacewalk. He has since been nominated by President-Elect Donald Trump to take over NASA. Clues to where he might try to lead the agency could be found in his commencement speech. He referenced how America’s glory days of aerospace innovation from the 1950s to 1980s showcased the country’s ingenuity, but that was followed by about a 30-year drought. “It felt like we really lost our edge. We lost our will to push the boundaries,” he said. “Our tolerance for risk really became near zero, and we got so comfortable, our competitors overseas were able to substantially close capability gaps.” But giving credit the SpaceX accomplishments including the return to U.S.-based human spaceflight, rocket reusability and the potential of Starship, he let the graduating class know there is reason to be optimistic again. But he also gave credit to Virgin Galactic and Blue Origin with their suborbital space launches, gave props to Rocket Lab as a reliable launch provider and highlighted some of the accomplishments that would be part of his charge in NASA if confirmed by the Senate. He called out the launch of the James Webb Space Telescope, the success of Martian helicopter Ingenuity and the Europa Clipper mission headed to one of Jupiter’s moons to see if it’s capable of supporting life. “This is wild stuff, and it’s happening right now,” he said. “There are so many exciting industry-wide projects that are underway from Blue Origin’s New Glenn that really should be launching in the very near future, possibly this month, to Rocket Lab’s Neutron, to hypersonics, to direct-to-cell satellites, flying-wing refueling tankers, a wave of autonomous drone technologies. And we’re starting to really live in the future that we all dreamed about as kids.” He praised SpaceX’s Starlink satellite constellation, but also highlighted similar capability from competitors such as Amazon’s in-development Project Kuiper as well as OneWeb, as essential to connecting the world. “What I’m describing here are all proof points that we are stepping into a new era, one that demands really the best talent, motivation, perseverance in the face of adversity and vision for a brighter and more interesting future, the qualities you have undoubtedly begun to develop here at Embry-Riddle,” he said. While he has a vested interest in space, Isaacman said he knows the graduating class will excel in an array of endeavors. “With your education, the opportunities and problems to solve do not necessarily have to be among the stars,” he said. “It’s about taking the knowledge, the skills and the drive that have brought you to this point and using them to solve enormous problems for the benefit of all humankind, whether you’re on or off Spaceship Earth.” But for those that do pursue space-related careers, he sees a much brighter future. “There’s going to be interplanetary spaceships. Heck, there are going to be factories that are making boosters and spaceships, satellites, probes, robots, lasers, space infrastructure. And this is going to happen as fast as we make airplanes today,” he said. He paid deference to President John F. Kennedy in the 1960s challenging a generation to reach the moon, while promoting the new call to action and the efforts already underway at NASA. “You stand at the precipice of your own moonshots,” he said. “We’re choosing to return to the moon to create a future on Mars and beyond and figure out that space economy. We’re going to design aircraft that travel faster, cleaner, more efficiently than they ever have, and to foster a sustainable space and aviation ecosystem.” Whether these solutions come from commercial efforts such as SpaceX or spearheaded by national policy, he expects them to come from the likes of ERAU graduates, he said. ‘It’s you who will make these possibilities real, working on and off the planet to create technologies that will carry our civilization across the skies into space and into the planets beyond,” he said. “And along the way, who knows? Maybe answer some of the questions that we’ve all been thinking about since the beginning of humankind.”Share Tweet Share Share Email Managing healthcare expenses can be a daunting task, especially in a world where medical costs continue to rise. However, with the right strategies, tools, and awareness, it is possible to simplify these challenges. One effective way to achieve this is by leveraging health savings accounts (HSAs) and implementing sound medical expense management practices . Understanding Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) are tax-advantaged accounts designed to help individuals save and pay for qualified medical expenses. These accounts are particularly beneficial for those enrolled in high-deductible health plans (HDHPs). By contributing to an HSA, individuals can build a financial safety net for unexpected healthcare costs. Key Features of HSAs: Tax Benefits: Contributions to HSAs are tax-deductible, and withdrawals for qualified medical expenses are tax-free. Additionally, any interest or investment earnings grow tax-free within the account. Flexibility: Funds in an HSA roll over year after year, unlike flexible spending accounts (FSAs) that often have a “use-it-or-lose-it” policy. Portability: HSAs remain with the account holder even if they change jobs or health insurance providers. Investment Opportunities: Some HSAs allow account holders to invest their funds in mutual funds or other financial instruments, increasing potential long-term growth . Why Medical Expense Management Matters Medical expense management goes beyond budgeting for routine costs. It involves understanding the nuances of healthcare spending, minimizing unnecessary expenses, and maximizing available resources. Poor management can lead to overwhelming debt, delayed medical care, or missed financial opportunities. Common Challenges in Medical Expense Management Unpredictable Costs: Medical emergencies can arise unexpectedly, leaving individuals financially strained. Lack of Transparency: Navigating healthcare costs can be confusing due to unclear pricing structures. Overlapping Coverage: Misunderstanding insurance policies can result in paying for services that are already covered. By adopting strategic approaches, individuals can overcome these challenges and gain better control over their medical finances. Tips for Simplifying Healthcare Costs Create a Budget for Medical Expenses Establishing a dedicated budget for healthcare can provide clarity and prevent overspending. Begin by reviewing past medical bills and estimating future needs. Include premiums, deductibles, copayments, and out-of-pocket expenses in the budget. Regularly update this plan to accommodate changes in health conditions or insurance coverage. Utilize Preventive Care Preventive care services, such as annual check-ups and screenings, are often covered at no additional cost under many insurance plans. These services help detect potential health issues early, reducing the likelihood of costly treatments later. Shop Around for Healthcare Services Healthcare providers may charge varying rates for the same services. Researching and comparing costs among different providers can lead to significant savings. Use online tools, such as price comparison websites, to find affordable options without compromising quality. Maximize Health Insurance Benefits Understanding your health insurance policy is essential for minimizing expenses. Take time to: Review what services are covered under your plan. Identify in-network providers to avoid higher out-of-pocket costs. Take advantage of perks like wellness programs or discounts on medications. Build and Maintain an HSA If eligible, contribute regularly to your HSA to accumulate funds for future medical expenses. Even small contributions can add up over time, providing a financial cushion for unexpected costs. Additionally, keep receipts for all healthcare expenses to ensure withdrawals comply with IRS regulations. Negotiate Medical Bills Many providers are open to negotiating bills, especially if you are paying out-of-pocket. Ask for itemized bills to ensure accuracy, and inquire about discounts or payment plans. Avoid Unnecessary Treatments Consult with healthcare professionals to confirm whether recommended treatments or tests are truly necessary. Second opinions can also provide valuable insights and prevent unnecessary spending. Leveraging Technology for Expense Management The rise of technology has made managing medical expenses easier than ever. Mobile apps, online platforms, and digital tools offer solutions for tracking spending, accessing insurance information, and finding cost-effective care. Popular Tools for Medical Expense Management: Expense Tracking Apps: Applications like Mint or GoodRx help monitor healthcare spending and identify savings opportunities. Telehealth Services: Virtual consultations reduce costs associated with in-person visits while providing convenient access to medical advice. Healthcare Cost Calculators: These tools estimate the potential costs of procedures, allowing for better financial planning. The Role of Employers in Simplifying Healthcare Costs Employers play a significant role in assisting employees with healthcare expense management. By offering comprehensive benefits and resources, they can alleviate some of the financial burdens on their workforce. Examples of Employer Contributions: HSAs with Employer Contributions: Some employers match employee contributions to HSAs, boosting savings. Health Reimbursement Arrangements (HRAs): HRAs allow employees to be reimbursed for qualified medical expenses not covered by insurance. Financial Wellness Programs: Workshops or counseling sessions on healthcare budgeting can empower employees to make informed decisions. Planning for the Future Medical expenses are likely to increase with age, making long-term planning essential. Individuals should consider factors such as potential chronic conditions, inflation, and changes in insurance policies. Diversifying savings through retirement accounts and HSAs can ensure sufficient funds for future needs. Steps for Long-Term Planning: Estimate Future Costs: Use healthcare cost calculators to project expenses during retirement. Invest Wisely: Consider investing HSA funds in options that offer growth potential. Review Insurance Options: Periodically reassess insurance coverage to ensure it meets evolving needs. Final Thoughts Simplifying healthcare costs requires a proactive and informed approach. By leveraging HSAs, adopting sound medical expense management strategies, and utilizing technology, individuals can achieve greater financial security. The key is to stay organized, informed, and prepared for any eventuality. With these tools and practices, navigating the complexities of healthcare becomes significantly easier, allowing you to focus on what truly matters—your health and well-being . Related Items: Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) , Medical Expenses , Simplifying Healthcare Costs Share Tweet Share Share Email CommentsGreen Building Materials Market to Surpass USD 455.6 Billion by 2031 11-30-2024 04:57 PM CET | Industry, Real Estate & Construction Press release from: Persistence Market Research Green Building Materials Market Introduction: The global green building materials market is on a robust growth trajectory, driven by increasing demand for environmentally friendly and sustainable construction solutions. These materials, characterized by their low environmental impact, energy efficiency, and recyclability, are becoming integral to modern architecture and urban development. This report delves into the market's projected growth, key trends, and driving factors, while highlighting the challenges and innovations shaping the industry. The focus on reducing carbon footprints and meeting stringent environmental regulations will continue to propel the adoption of green building materials globally. Market Projections and Forecast: According to Persistence Market Research, the global green building materials market is expected to grow from USD 265.8 billion in 2024 to USD 455.6 billion by the end of 2031, achieving a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8% during the forecast period. This growth underscores the increasing emphasis on sustainability, resource efficiency, and compliance with evolving building codes and standards. North America is expected to maintain its dominance due to the presence of stringent environmental regulations and high awareness about sustainable construction. Simultaneously, emerging economies in Asia-Pacific are anticipated to witness significant growth, fueled by rapid urbanization and government initiatives promoting green infrastructure. Get a Sample PDF Brochure of the Report (Use Corporate Email ID for a Quick Response): www.persistencemarketresearch.com/samples/33981 Market Dynamics: Drivers of Market Growth: Rising Awareness of Environmental Impact Governments and organizations worldwide are prioritizing sustainable construction to combat climate change. Green building materials offer reduced energy consumption, lower carbon emissions, and improved indoor air quality, making them attractive options for eco-conscious developers and consumers. Stringent Regulations and Certifications Building codes and certification programs like LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) and BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) are pushing developers to integrate green materials into their projects. Compliance with these standards is increasingly becoming a necessity. Cost Efficiency Over Lifecycle While green building materials may have higher upfront costs, their long-term benefits, such as energy savings, durability, and reduced maintenance costs, contribute to overall cost efficiency. This economic advantage is encouraging their adoption in both residential and commercial construction. Advancements in Material Technology Innovations in manufacturing and material science are enabling the production of advanced green building materials with superior properties, such as high insulation, improved recyclability, and better durability. Challenges in the Market: High Initial Costs Despite long-term savings, the higher upfront costs associated with green building materials deter some developers, especially in cost-sensitive regions. Lack of Awareness in Emerging Markets Limited awareness and understanding of the benefits of green building materials pose a significant challenge in developing economies. Education and outreach efforts are necessary to overcome this barrier. Supply Chain Issues The availability of raw materials and the need for specialized manufacturing processes can disrupt the supply chain, affecting the timely adoption of green materials. Slow Adoption of Policies in Some Regions While developed regions are proactive in implementing green building standards, inconsistent or delayed regulatory frameworks in certain countries hinder the market's growth. Market Trends and Technological Innovations: Energy-Efficient Materials Green building materials with energy-saving properties, such as high-performance insulation, reflective roofing, and low-emissivity windows, are gaining traction as they help reduce energy consumption in buildings. Recycled and Recyclable Materials The use of recycled steel, reclaimed wood, and recyclable concrete is growing due to their low environmental impact. These materials also help conserve natural resources and reduce waste. Bio-Based Materials Innovations in bio-based materials, such as bamboo, hempcrete, and cork, are offering sustainable alternatives to traditional building products. These materials are biodegradable, renewable, and provide excellent thermal insulation. Integration of Smart Building Systems The combination of green materials with smart technologies, such as energy-monitoring systems, enhances the efficiency and sustainability of modern buildings. Green Building Materials Market Segmentation: By Type Structural Materials Recycled steel Bamboo Reclaimed wood Exterior Materials Green roofing Reflective paints Recycled asphalt Interior Materials Low-VOC paints Recycled carpets Cork flooring By Application Residential Construction Increasing consumer preference for energy-efficient homes and government incentives are driving the adoption of green materials in residential projects. Commercial Construction Corporate sustainability initiatives and energy efficiency goals are boosting the use of green materials in commercial buildings, including offices, malls, and healthcare facilities. Industrial Construction Industrial sectors are integrating green materials to comply with regulatory requirements and reduce their carbon footprint. Regional Analysis: North America The region is leading the market due to stringent building codes, high consumer awareness, and the widespread adoption of green certifications like LEED. The U.S. is a key contributor, with government policies promoting sustainable construction practices. Europe Europe follows closely, driven by the European Union's focus on reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving energy efficiency. Countries like Germany, the UK, and France are at the forefront of implementing green building materials in both public and private projects. Asia-Pacific Rapid urbanization, rising disposable income, and government initiatives promoting green infrastructure are driving growth in the Asia-Pacific region. China and India are major contributors, with large-scale investments in sustainable urban development. Rest of the World Regions like the Middle East, Latin America, and Africa are gradually adopting green building materials, supported by international collaborations and government-led sustainability programs. Key Companies Profiled in the Report: BASF SE DuPont de Nemours, Inc. Kingspan Group Holcim Group Interface, Inc. Owens Corning PPG Industries, Inc. Saint-Gobain Sika AG Tata Steel Future Outlook: The green building materials market is set to experience significant growth as sustainability becomes a core focus in the construction industry. The transition to eco-friendly materials will continue to be driven by regulatory frameworks, consumer demand, and technological advancements. As the market evolves, collaboration between governments, private companies, and environmental organizations will play a pivotal role in accelerating adoption. Innovations in bio-based materials, recycled products, and energy-efficient solutions will further enhance the market's appeal. Conclusion: The global green building materials market is poised to transform the construction industry by promoting sustainability, reducing environmental impact, and offering long-term cost benefits. With a projected CAGR of 8% between 2024 and 2031, the market presents a lucrative opportunity for stakeholders across the value chain. As urbanization continues to rise and environmental concerns intensify, the demand for green building materials will remain a critical factor in shaping the future of sustainable construction. Read More Trending "PMR Exclusive Article": • https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/us-prison-management-systems-market-data-trends-dcutf • https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/us-climate-resilient-technologies-market-shaping-urban-ajay-patil-o9ubf • https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/asia-pacifics-rapid-growth-fuels-non-linear-bg6pc • https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/asia-pacific-driving-significant-growth-ekelc • https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/aerospace-accumulator-market-demand-surge-emerging-technologies-bdscf/ Contact Us: Persistence Market Research G04 Golden Mile House, Clayponds Lane Brentford, London, TW8 0GU UK USA Phone: +1 646-878-6329 UK Phone: +44 203-837-5656 Email: sales@persistencemarketresearch.com Web: https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com About Persistence Market Research: At Persistence Market Research, we specialize in creating research studies that serve as strategic tools for driving business growth. Established as a proprietary firm in 2012, we have evolved into a registered company in England and Wales in 2023 under the name Persistence Research & Consultancy Services Ltd. With a solid foundation, we have completed over 3600 custom and syndicate market research projects, and delivered more than 2700 projects for other leading market research companies' clients. Our approach combines traditional market research methods with modern tools to offer comprehensive research solutions. With a decade of experience, we pride ourselves on deriving actionable insights from data to help businesses stay ahead of the competition. Our client base spans multinational corporations, leading consulting firms, investment funds, and government departments. A significant portion of our sales comes from repeat clients, a testament to the value and trust we've built over the years. This release was published on openPR.WASHINGTON ― First came this month of his son, Hunter Biden. It was followed Thursday by the largest single-day act of clemency in modern history: commuting the sentences of nearly during the COVID pandemic and pardoning 39 others convicted of nonviolent crimes. The lame-duck, 82-year-old Democrat isn't done yet. Biden promised to take "more steps in the weeks ahead" as he announced the he said have successfully reintegrated into their communities and deserved a "second chance." Less than six weeks before he leaves the White House, Biden faces a host of political and legal considerations as he decides how he will use his presidential clemency power next. Biden and his senior aides are for individuals they fear President-elect Donald Trump might target for criminal investigations. Rep. James Clyburn, D-S.C., a close Biden ally, of his federal charges to "clean the slate." Meanwhile, criminal justice advocates, although pleased by Biden's moves Thursday, want him to sign off on all 10,000 pending clemency petitions. Other activists and progressive Democrats are urging Biden to , fearing the return of Trump will restart federal executions, which had been paused under the Biden administration. "With 39 days remaining in his presidency, President Biden has the power to continue to use his clemency authority to change and save the lives of many, many other Americans behind the wall," said Rep. Ayanna Pressley, D-Mass. "It is the right thing to do, it is the moral thing to do, and it is a matter of legacy.” With the latest clemency moves, the White House said Biden has now issued more sentence commutations than any of his predecessors at the same point in their terms. That's in addition to pardons targeting categories of offenses, including pardons for simple marijuana possession in 2022, pardoning veterans previously convicted . Yet ‒ which absolves an individual of a criminal offense entirely ‒ has been the slowest since at least President William McKinley in 1900, according to Justice Department records. Biden has pardoned 65 people so far, leaving him behind another one-term president, George H. W. Bush, who pardoned 74 people. But pardons sometimes happen at the end of an administration because they can be controversial, and Biden has until Jan. 20 to make his decisions. Jimmy Carter, another one-term president, had the most in the last 50 years, with 534 pardons – before counting the open-ended pardon he provided people who dodged the Vietnam War draft from 1964 to 1973. Franklin Roosevelt pardoned the most since 1900 with 2,819 during his four terms. The 1,499 individuals whose sentences Biden commuted involve people in home confinement through the 2020 CARES Act, which authorized the federal Bureau of Prisons to move medically vulnerable inmates incarcerated for nonviolent offenses from prisons to house arrest. Biden said many of recipients receiving commuted sentences "would receive lower sentences if charged under today's laws, policies and practices" and that they have "successfully reintegrated into their families and communities and have shown that they deserve a second chance." He said the 39 people he is pardoning have shown "commitment to making their communities stronger and safer." None are household names, and most were convicted of nonviolent drug-related offenses. Clyburn, who had previously commended Biden for pardoning 11 people convicted of simple marijuana possession, said his action tackled injustice. “Many people of color and moderate means have been disproportionately burdened by systemic injustices and clemency is a potent tool in the President’s toolbox to remedy some faults in our legal system,” Clyburn said in a statement. Margaret Huang, president of the Southern Poverty Law Center, said Biden’s action provided justice for people in southern states who are disproportionately and harshly punished due to discriminatory law enforcement. “The failings of the criminal legal system have resulted in the mass incarceration of people of color throughout the South, justified by fabricated narratives about the benefits of institutionalization to public safety,” Huang said. Some Republicans had to return people in home confinement during the pandemic back to prison. But GOP criticism from Biden's actions Thursday didn't appear widespread. "I’m not surprised at this point anymore," Rep. Anna Paulina Luna, R-Fla., . "I think I’m still trying to get over the after he promised America he wouldn’t do it." In the weeks since Trump's election victory last month, criminal justice activists have ramped up pressure on Biden to commute sentences of federal inmates on death row ‒ and follow through on a Biden 2020 campaign promise to end the federal death penalty. They renewed their calls after Thursday's announcement. During Trump's first term, his administration oversaw 13 executions in its final six months, becoming the first presidential administration to . Trump has vowed to resume federal executions and . A collection of 134 groups advocating for civil liberties, human rights and social justice urged Biden on Monday to commute the sentences of all prisoners on death row. Pressley and other House Democrats calling for the same Wednesday. “While today’s announcement is wonderful, there is more to do in the final weeks before President Biden leaves office,” said Cynthia Roseberry, director of policy and government affairs at the American Civil Liberties Union’s justice division. “We strongly urge President Biden to use his power to address this country's failed death penalty by commuting death row sentences.” Democrats in the Black Congressional Caucus and civil rights leaders have also pushed Biden to pardon , who was convicted earlier this year on perjury and mortgage fraud charges related to a home loan application. Her advocates say Mosby, who maintains her innocence, was a political target of the Trump administration. White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre was noncommittal when asked Thursday whether Biden will commute sentences for individuals on federal death row. She said Biden and his team will continue to review clemency petitions "in normal course." She added that Biden wants to "further the criminal justice reforms in a manner that advances equity and justice, promotes public safety, supports rehab and re-entry, and provides meaningful second chances." Pressed about the thousands of others seeking clemency, Jean-Pierre said Biden has taken "many actions" in addition to the latest clemency announcements. A far more delicate political calculation for Biden will be whether to offer blanket pardons to shield individuals who Trump has threatened. It would likely invite an instant backlash, particularly from Republicans, while Biden also faces criticism for his broadly-worded pardon for Hunter Biden, which was made not only to reprieve his son from existing gun and tax felonies but to shield him from potential future charges by Trump's Justice Department. Some Democratic lawmakers, led by U.S. Sen. Ed Markey of Massachusetts, are publicly advocating for the pre-pardons ‒ alarmed by Trump's repeated past threats to and his recent pick of longtime ally as director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation to replace Christopher Wray, who resigned Wednesday. Those who could be on a pre-pardon list include retired Gen. Mark Milley, who Trump ; former Republican Rep. Liz Cheney, who Trump has said should "go to jail" for her role on the House committee that investigated the Jan. 6, 2021 attack on the Capitol; Dr. Anthony Fauci, a frequent target of Republican lawmakers over his work during the U.S. response to the COVID-19 pandemic; and Sen. of California, who Trump has referred to as "the enemy within" for his leading role while serving in the House of Representatives during Trump's first impeachment. In an interview over the weekend on NBC's Meet the Press, Trump said some members of the House committee that investigated Trump's actions on Jan. 6, 2021 should “go to jail.” , former chair of the committee, accept a pre-emptive pardon from Biden out of fear that might target him with a criminal investigation. Yet the possibility of pre-pardoning people who have not been charged of any crimes raises several legal concerns that could ultimately sway Biden not to take action, according to legal experts. Accepting a pardon carries with it the suggestion of accepting guilt. And some Democrats worry Biden would set a new precedent for pardons, opening the door for Trump to take similar actions. Jean-Pierre wouldn't rule out blanket pardons when asked whether it's a possibility. "He's going to have conversations with his team's going to review clemency petitions," she told reporters on Thursday. "He's going to review options on the table. And so that's where I'm going to leave it."
NoneGeorgian police fire teargas at pro-EU protesters as political crisis deepensColorado continues to work on defense, faces South Dakota State
ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. (AP) — Workers pushing for an end to smoking in Atlantic City casinos say the main employee union has been won over by tobacco companies seeking allies in the fight against smoking restrictions. An official of a union involved in the anti-smoking push on Monday called for the head of the Atlantic City casino workers' union, Donna DeCaprio, to resign for failing to protect her members from the dangers of secondhand smoke. DeCaprio is president of Local 54 of the Unite Here union, which opposes a smoking ban on the grounds that so much business would be lost by smokers taking their money elsewhere that it could cause one or more casinos to shut down, costing thousands of workers their jobs. “She should be ashamed of herself,” said Ray Jensen, assistant director of United Auto Workers Region 9, which represents dealers at three Atlantic City casinos and is part of a lawsuit seeking to have the courts force an end to smoking in the gambling halls. “She should hand in her union card.” DeCaprio said her union supports the health and safety of its members, adding improvements to the workplace environment need to be made. “A balance needs to be reached that will both protect worker health and preserve good jobs,” she said. “We are protecting our members against multiple casino closures and job losses. The UAW is eager to sacrifice the entire casino industry and put 25,000 good jobs with benefits at risk.” DeCaprio said between 50% and 72% of all in-person casino revenue in Atlantic City comes from smoking sections, which occupy only 25% of the casino floor. She said her union “and the vast majority of the labor movement” support a proposal that would improve ventilation in casinos and prevent any employee from being assigned to work in a smoking section against their will. Whether to ban smoking is one of the most controversial issues not only in Atlantic City casinos but in other states where workers have expressed concern about secondhand smoke. They are waging similar campaigns in Rhode Island, Pennsylvania, Kansas and Virginia. Workers have been pushing for four years to end an exemption in New Jersey’s clean air law that allows smoking inside the nine casinos. They say they or their co-workers are becoming ill with cancer, heart disease and other conditions related to exposure to second-hand smoke. Gov. Phil Murphy, a Democrat, has said he will sign a bill to end casino smoking if it reaches his desk. The casinos, joined by Local 54, oppose that effort, saying it will cost Atlantic City thousands of jobs and lead to decreased tax revenue for state programs for senior citizens and the disabled. On Monday, the workers group that calls itself CEASE (Casino Employees Against Smoking’s Effects) filed an appeal of a court ruling in August that allowed smoking to continue in the nine casinos. The Casino Association of New Jersey declined to comment Monday. Attorney Nancy Erika Smith said as far back as 1993, tobacco companies targeted labor unions in the hospitality industry as potential allies to work against smoking bans in the restaurant and hospitality industries. That effort included the Hotel Employees and Restaurant Employees Union, a precursor of the Unite Here union. “HERE and the related AFL-CIO affiliates are critical allies which should be cultivated as supporters of the effort to prevent smoking bans,” a public relations firm wrote in a memo to Philip Morris Companies that was made public during several states' litigation against tobacco companies. The memo said having HERE “as an ally in this effort would be a very powerful voice.” As far back as 2001, HERE was part of a 12-member coalition including labor unions advocating for improved indoor ventilation instead of government-imposed smoking bans, according to another document cited in Monday's appeal. The anti-smoking campaigners cite a 2022 report by Las Vegas-based C3 Gaming, a consulting firm, showing that casinos that went smoke-free "appear to be performing better than their counterparts that continue to allow smoking.” Follow Wayne Parry on X at www.twitter.com/WayneParryACColorado continues to work on defense, faces South Dakota StateHUNTSVILLE, Texas (AP) — Cameron Huefner scored 20 points as Sam Houston beat Dallas 111-65 on Saturday. Read this article for free: Already have an account? To continue reading, please subscribe: * HUNTSVILLE, Texas (AP) — Cameron Huefner scored 20 points as Sam Houston beat Dallas 111-65 on Saturday. Read unlimited articles for free today: Already have an account? HUNTSVILLE, Texas (AP) — Cameron Huefner scored 20 points as Sam Houston beat Dallas 111-65 on Saturday. Huefner added eight rebounds for the Bearkats (7-6). Lamar Wilkerson went 7 of 13 from the field (3 for 8 from 3-point range) to add 17 points. Dorian Finister shot 5 for 11 (1 for 3 from 3-point range) and 4 of 4 from the free-throw line to finish with 15 points. Thomas Fleming led the Crusaders in scoring, finishing with 16 points. Dallas also got 15 points from Johny Olmsted. Chandler Holmes finished with 13 points. Sam Houston took the lead with 16:32 remaining in the first half and did not give it up. The score was 50-34 at halftime, with Huefner racking up 11 points. Sam Houston extended its lead to 91-53 during the second half, fueled by a 17-2 scoring run. Erik Taylor scored a team-high 10 points in the second half for the Bearkats. ___ The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar. Advertisement
Jonathan Kitchen In the summer of 2023 I believed that Quaker Chemical ( NYSE: KWR ) was offering a mixed bag for investors. While I believed that more earnings upside was seen, the company has only been posting flattish earnings amidst falling sales here, due If you like to see more ideas, please subscribe to the premium service "Value in Corporate Events" here and try the free trial. In this service we cover major earnings events, M&A, IPOs and other significant corporate events with actionable ideas. Furthermore, we provide coverage of situations and names on request! The Value Investor has a Master of Science with specialization in financial markets and a decade of experience tracking companies via catalytic company events. Value In Corporate Events Learn more Analyst’s Disclosure: I/we have no stock, option or similar derivative position in any of the companies mentioned, and no plans to initiate any such positions within the next 72 hours. I wrote this article myself, and it expresses my own opinions. I am not receiving compensation for it (other than from Seeking Alpha). I have no business relationship with any company whose stock is mentioned in this article. Seeking Alpha's Disclosure: Past performance is no guarantee of future results. No recommendation or advice is being given as to whether any investment is suitable for a particular investor. Any views or opinions expressed above may not reflect those of Seeking Alpha as a whole. Seeking Alpha is not a licensed securities dealer, broker or US investment adviser or investment bank. Our analysts are third party authors that include both professional investors and individual investors who may not be licensed or certified by any institute or regulatory body.
ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. (AP) — Workers pushing for an end to smoking in Atlantic City casinos say the main employee union has been won over by tobacco companies seeking allies in the fight against smoking restrictions. An official of a union involved in the anti-smoking push on Monday called for the head of the Atlantic City casino workers' union, Donna DeCaprio, to resign for failing to protect her members from the dangers of secondhand smoke. DeCaprio is president of Local 54 of the Unite Here union, which opposes a smoking ban on the grounds that so much business would be lost by smokers taking their money elsewhere that it could cause one or more casinos to shut down, costing thousands of workers their jobs. “She should be ashamed of herself,” said Ray Jensen, assistant director of United Auto Workers Region 9, which represents dealers at three Atlantic City casinos and is part of a lawsuit seeking to have the courts force an end to smoking in the gambling halls. “She should hand in her union card.” DeCaprio said her union supports the health and safety of its members, adding improvements to the workplace environment need to be made. “A balance needs to be reached that will both protect worker health and preserve good jobs,” she said. “We are protecting our members against multiple casino closures and job losses. The UAW is eager to sacrifice the entire casino industry and put 25,000 good jobs with benefits at risk.” DeCaprio said between 50% and 72% of all in-person casino revenue in Atlantic City comes from smoking sections, which occupy only 25% of the casino floor. She said her union “and the vast majority of the labor movement” support a proposal that would improve ventilation in casinos and prevent any employee from being assigned to work in a smoking section against their will. Whether to ban smoking is one of the most controversial issues not only in Atlantic City casinos but in other states where workers have expressed concern about secondhand smoke. They are waging similar campaigns in Rhode Island, Pennsylvania, Kansas and Virginia. Workers have been pushing for four years to end an exemption in New Jersey’s clean air law that allows smoking inside the nine casinos. They say they or their co-workers are becoming ill with cancer, heart disease and other conditions related to exposure to second-hand smoke. Gov. Phil Murphy, a Democrat, has said he will sign a bill to end casino smoking if it reaches his desk. The casinos, joined by Local 54, oppose that effort, saying it will cost Atlantic City thousands of jobs and lead to decreased tax revenue for state programs for senior citizens and the disabled. On Monday, the workers group that calls itself CEASE (Casino Employees Against Smoking’s Effects) filed an appeal of a court ruling in August that allowed smoking to continue in the nine casinos. The Casino Association of New Jersey declined to comment Monday. Attorney Nancy Erika Smith said as far back as 1993, tobacco companies targeted labor unions in the hospitality industry as potential allies to work against smoking bans in the restaurant and hospitality industries. That effort included the Hotel Employees and Restaurant Employees Union, a precursor of the Unite Here union. “HERE and the related AFL-CIO affiliates are critical allies which should be cultivated as supporters of the effort to prevent smoking bans,” a public relations firm wrote in a memo to Philip Morris Companies that was made public during several states' litigation against tobacco companies. The memo said having HERE “as an ally in this effort would be a very powerful voice.” As far back as 2001, HERE was part of a 12-member coalition including labor unions advocating for improved indoor ventilation instead of government-imposed smoking bans, according to another document cited in Monday's appeal. The anti-smoking campaigners cite a 2022 report by Las Vegas-based C3 Gaming, a consulting firm, showing that casinos that went smoke-free "appear to be performing better than their counterparts that continue to allow smoking.” Follow Wayne Parry on X at www.twitter.com/WayneParryAC Get any of our free daily email newsletters — news headlines, opinion, e-edition, obituaries and more.B.C. man arrested on allegations he threatened police while livestreaming
NoneSave articles for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them any time. Parnell Palme McGuinness explores the concept of the decline in “woke” (“ 2024 is the year that woke broke ”, December 22). Why do I find this disturbing? Woke seems to have been a pejorative term for having a social conscience. Detractors of woke attract all sorts of over-the-top caveats to it. Donald Trump finally gave people permission to be openly uncaring of various groups of people. With the alleged abandonment of woke, will we all be more openly hostile to these people? Is this behind the rise of antisemitism? Which group will we hate next? Stay tuned. Jan Marshall, Collaroy Having been a strident critic of all things “woke-ish” across the past decade, McGuinness cannot contain her joy and enthusiasm at her self-nominated demise of woke. According to McGuinness, the game is over for those who have supported social justice issues for minority, diverse or disadvantaged people. You have lost the contest and with it goes the hopes and dreams of those disadvantaged minorities in our community. What a Pyrrhic victory, as our society is much the poorer for our minority groups once again being cast adrift. I find the gloating quite distasteful. Warren Marks, Richmond (Tas) Independent climate action I don’t understand what US climate change policy under Trump would have to do with our own emissions reduction time frame or targets (“ Emissions target hit by Trump concerns ”, December 22). If Trump follows through with his threats to reduce climate action, then wouldn’t that mean other countries should step up their efforts to compensate for an irresponsible US on climate action? In the face of hundreds of climate scientists saying we should drastically cut the burning of fossil fuels, Trump wants to ramp up this burning. Let’s ignore him and every other country, and just get on with their own efforts to reduce pollution. Dennis O’Hara, Wanniassa (ACT) President-elect Donald Trump has threatened to reduce climate action. Credit: Bloomberg Using Donald Trump as an excuse for delaying Australia’s 2035 emissions target until after the election is convenient nonsense. An emissions target is just that, a target, and it is based upon what a country needs to do to reach net zero by 2050. It is also based on science. While Trump may make the target harder to achieve, the target itself should be independent. The best that can be said is “late is better than never”, unlike the Coalition, who would scrap the interim targets altogether. Ray Peck, Hawthorn (Vic) Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Energy Minister Chris Bowen should be able to make up their own minds. I really don’t understand why Australia can’t do its bit for the climate and environment without waiting for the Climate Change Authority or America. They should be leaders, not followers. Jenny Greenwood, Hunters Hill Time’s up for zoos I believe zoos have no place in modern society (“Residents fear zoo gondolas too much to bear” , December 22). The old line that “it helps subsidise the cost of preserving species” is spurious. There are better ways to do this without keeping these beautiful creatures in small enclosures to be gawked at by tourists. I used to go to the zoo, and even took my kids to the zoo. But as human beings we are forever evolving and should be questioning and reflecting on things and behaviours that we once thought were acceptable but don’t pass the pub test now. Turn Taronga Zoo into a park, and forget about the cable car. Lisa Del Vecchio, South Coogee No excuse for murder I detect a whiff of empathy from a correspondent ( Sun Herald letters , December 22) for alleged murderer Luigi Mangione, plus well-placed anger at health insurance companies, which reject 32 per cent of claims. The letter writer’s claims that Mangione “was not aiming at the grab-bag of issues Trump latched onto” is, unfortunately, dead accurate. Rather, Mangione allegedly aimed straight at the back of a health insurance company’s CEO, who’d previously had a name, Brian Thompson, a personality, a family, and a life. Rosemary O’Brien, Ashfield Good education needn’t break the bank St Clare’s College, a Catholic systemic school, and a number of comprehensive public schools have academically outperformed many expensive private schools (“ Low-fee Sydney schools that beat their expensive HSC rivals ”, December 22). The schools did it without a library resembling a Scottish baronial castle, $170 million worth of building upgrades, or a heated gymnasium and 50-metre indoor swimming pool. A quality education can be achieved without exorbitant excesses. John Cotterill, Kingsford Degree of civility No need to introduce new rules to contain the practice of “lecture bashing”, where students at the University of Sydney, with lecturer permission, have been granted five minutes to make political statements to a captive audience (“ The radical proposal that could end Sydney Uni’s proud history of rebellion”, December 22). Lecturers could allow the same five minutes at the conclusion of the lecture in which students can make their own decision regarding participation, by voting with their feet. Freedom of speech maintained – as well as freedom of choice. Trevor Wootten, PetershamSocial Don't miss out on the headlines from Social. Followed categories will be added to My News. Meta, the company that owns Facebook and Instagram, has donated $1 million to an inauguration fund for President-elect Donald Trump — a perhaps surprising move given the pair’s rocky past. The tech giant’s billionaire CEO, Mark Zuckerberg, dined with the president-elect at his Mar-a-Lago resort in November, as he tried to patch up relationship with the 78-year-old following the election. The Republican previously was highly critical of Mr Zuckerberg and Facebook – calling the platform “anti-Trump” in 2017. It is understood Meta didn’t make similar donations to President Joe Biden’s inaugural fund in 2020 or to Trump’s previous inaugural fund in 2016. The company confirmed its million-dollar donation to the inaugural fund to US media on Wednesday. While it sounds like a lot of money to the everyman, $1 million is pocket change for Mr Zuckerberg who is worth $214 billion personally and whose company Meta is worth $1.59 trillion. Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg. Picture: AFP MORE: Ivanka reveals ‘hurtful toll’ behind Trump snub Inauguration funds are used to pay for events and activities when a new president takes office — although many see them as attempts to win influence with the new administration. Mr Trump will be sworn in as the 47th US president on 20 January. A rocky past It has been far from smooth sailing between Mr Trump and Mr Zuckerberg in recent years. Things went even further south when Facebook and Instagram suspended the former president’s accounts in 2021, after they said he praised those engaged in violence at the Capitol riot on 6 January. Since then, Mr Trump has slammed Meta – calling Facebook an “enemy of the people” in March. He also said this year that a law banning TikTok in the US would unfairly benefit Facebook. In August, Mr Zuckerberg told Republican politicians in a letter that he regretted bowing to pressure from the Biden administration to “censor” some Facebook and Instagram content during the coronavirus pandemic. Mr Trump will be sworn in next month. Mr Trump wrote in a book published in September that Mr Zuckerberg would “spend the rest of his life in prison” if he tried to intervene in the 2024 election. But the president-elect appears to have changed his tune in recent months. He told a podcast in October it was “nice” Mr Zuckerberg was “staying out of the election”, and thanked him for a personal phone call after he faced an assassination attempt. However, there’s a clear favourite for Mr Trump when it comes to tech billionaires — with Elon Musk positioning himself as the president-elect’s ‘first buddy’ because of his extensive donations to his election campaign. The bromance was so strong, it led to Mr Musk being placed in charge of a new Department of Government Efficiency (Doge). So if Mr Zuckerberg is trying to impress he might have to dig a little deeper into those pockets. More Coverage Dad, stepmum did unimaginable to girl, 10 Ed Southgate – The Sun TV legend’s bizarre porn mag collection Annette Sharp Originally published as Zuckerberg’s surprising $1m Trump move Read related topics: Donald Trump More related stories Technology How Labor will punish tech giants who don’t pay up The federal government has unveiled its proposal to force tech giants to pay for Australian journalism or risk harsh penalties. See how it affects you. Read more Social ‘Sl*t’: Moment teen model unleashed on mum Court documents reveal what went on at a ritzy Sydney apartment that saw Paris Ow-Yang charged with assault. Read more
No one wants to see any player take a vicious hit like the one that knocked Trevor Lawrence out of the game. It’s easy to agree on that point. Eliminating violent shots is the hard part. The NFL has instituted several rules to protect quarterbacks but football is a physical sport and players have to react instantly and make split-second decisions going at high speeds so injuries keep occurring. Lawrence was carted off the field in the first half of Jacksonville’s 23-20 loss to Houston on Sunday after Azeez Al-Shaair leveled the defenseless quarterback with a forearm to the facemask. The late hit put Lawrence in the fencing position — both fists clenched — and he stayed on the ground for several minutes, while a brawl ensued. Lawrence didn’t require hospitalization for his concussion but it’s unknown when he’ll return. “Thank you to everyone who has reached out/been praying for me,” Lawrence wrote on X. “I’m home and feeling better. Means a lot, thank you all.” Al-Shaair was ejected from the game and faces a fine and potential suspension after his latest unsportsmanlike penalty. The Texans' linebacker was flagged and later fined $11,255 for a late hit out of bounds on Titans running back Tony Pollard last week. He was fined earlier this year after he punched Bears running back Roschon Johnson on the sideline in Week 2. That occurred during a scuffle that started after his hard shot on quarterback Caleb Williams near the sideline that wasn’t flagged. Al-Shaair once got away with grabbing Tom Brady by the throat on a pass rush in a game between the 49ers and Buccaneers. Outraged Jaguars players called Al-Shaair’s hit “dirty” and Texans coach DeMeco Ryans made it known he didn’t condone it. “It’s not what we’re coaching,” Ryans said. “Want to be smart in everything we do and not hurt the team, get a penalty there. Have to be smarter when the quarterback is going down. Unfortunate play. Not representative of who Azeez is. He’s a smart player, really great leader for us. We felt his presence not being there. His loss really affected us on the defensive side. Just not what we’re coaching. Didn’t want to see the melee and all the aftermath. That’s not what we’re about. Not representative of us. I’ll talk to Azeez, address him personally, and we’ll move forward from it.” Fox Sports color analyst Daryl Johnston, a former fullback for the Dallas Cowboys, didn’t hold back his criticism, calling it a “cheap shot.” “It’s everything you’re not supposed to do,” Johnston said. “Everything. You’ll see this in slow motion and Azeez Al-Shaair does everything you’re trying to prevent in this situation. It’s reckless. It’s disrespectful. There’s an honor that you give to your opponent on the football field and you respect him. And there’s opportunities to be physical and give big hits and play this game in that manner. And there’s other times when there’s a respect that you grant to your opponent.” Some former NFL quarterbacks blasted Al-Shaair on social media. “There is no place in the game of football for dirty hits like this one,” Robert Griffin III wrote on X. Chase Daniel called it “one of the dirtiest hits” he’s ever seen on a quarterback. Even defensive players struggled to defend Al-Shaair. “That was uncalled for,” Hall of Fame defensive lineman Michael Strahan said on Fox’s studio show while fellow Hall of Famer Howie Long agreed. But the play also sparked debate about the quarterback slide. Lawrence slid feet first, which signals that he’s giving himself up on the play. The NFL rulebook states: “A defender must pull up when a runner begins a feet-first slide.” But defensive players aren’t automatically penalized if they make contact with a sliding quarterback if they already committed and the contact is unavoidable. The rules state it’s a foul when “the defender makes forcible contact into the head or neck area of the runner with the helmet, shoulder, or forearm, or commits some other act that is unnecessary roughness.” Al-Shaair did that so he was penalized and will face other repercussions. Still, given the hard-hitting nature of the sport, it won’t be the last time this happens.Cameron Huefner scores 20 and Sam Houston beats Dallas 111-65
NEW YORK (AP) — Geronimo Rubio De La Rosa scored 27 points as Columbia beat Fairfield 85-72 on Saturday night. De La Rosa shot 8 of 15 from the field, including 5 for 11 from 3-point range, and went 6 for 6 from the line for the Lions (11-1). Avery Brown shot 5 of 8 from the field and 5 of 5 from the free-throw line to add 16 points. Kenny Noland went 5 of 12 from the field (3 for 7 from 3-point range) to finish with 15 points. The Stags (5-8, 1-1 Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference) were led by Louis Bleechmore, who recorded 12 points. Fairfield also got 12 points and seven assists from Jamie Bergens. Deon Perry had 12 points and five assists. Columbia's next game is Monday against Rutgers on the road, and Fairfield visits Merrimack on Friday. The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar .