FORT WORTH, Texas, Dec. 13, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- CorVel Corporation (NASDAQ: CRVL) announces that its Board of Directors approved a three-for-one forward stock split of its common stock. The Board also approved a proportionate increase in the number of authorized shares of common stock to accommodate the stock split. The Board did not approve an increase in the number of authorized shares of preferred stock. The implementation of the stock split and authorized share increase is subject to the filing of an amendment to the Company’s Fourth Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware, which the Company expects to file on December 24, 2024. “Our stock price has seen extraordinary growth over the past several years fueled by our strong financial performance and the successful execution of our strategic plan. We believe it is the right time to effect a forward stock split to increase the accessibility of our stock to potential investors while maintaining our focus on delivering our customers enhanced technological solutions for the management of their healthcare needs,” said Michael G. Combs, the Company’s President, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board. Following the filing and effectiveness of the amendment, every one share of common stock outstanding or held in treasury on December 23, 2024, the record date for the stock split, will be split into three shares of common stock. Subject to final approval by the Nasdaq Global Select Market, trading is currently expected to begin on a post-stock split adjusted basis at market open on December 26, 2024. Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements This Press Release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, which statements are subject to considerable risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements include all statements other than statements of historical fact contained in this Press Release, including statements regarding the implementation and timing of the stock split and authorized share increase, and the timing of trading on a post-stock split basis. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties that may cause our actual results to differ materially and adversely from those expressed, assumed, or implied by the forward-looking statements. Some of the risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to materially differ from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements are described in the section entitled “Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2024, as well as in our Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Any forward-looking statement made in this press release is based only on information currently available to the Company and speaks only as of the date on which it is made. Except as required by applicable law or the listing rules of the Nasdaq Global Select Market, the Company expressly disclaims any intent or obligation to update any forward-looking statements, or to update the reasons actual results could differ materially from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements, whether to conform such statements to actual results or changes in expectations, or as a result of the availability of new information. Contact: Melissa Storan Phone: 949-851-1473 www.corvel.comLaw targets 'weaponizing' of remote control GPS in vehicles against domestic violence survivors
BILLIONAIRE tech mogul Elon Musk says he could transform transatlantic travel by building a $20 trillion vacuum tube tunnel. The Tesla and Space X mastermind believes someday tourists may be able to whizz between London and New York in as little as 54 minutes on board an underwater train. 6 Stock of an underwater train as plans for potential transatlantic travel have been revealed Credit: Shutterstock 6 The innovative idea is to create a vacuum within a tunnel that when paired with pressurised vehicles such as a train can travel at 3,000mph Credit: Getty 6 Tech mogul Elon Musk says he could transform transatlantic travel by building the tunnel and train system Credit: Getty Initial plans for the ambitious tunnel system have been around for years with Musk not being involved in the blueprints. Clever architects and developers are said to be working on the possibility of creating a tunnel and a train which is capable of reaching speeds of up to 3,000mph. The innovative idea is to create a vacuum within the tunnel that when paired with pressurised vehicles causes the almighty speeds. News outlet Newsweek reports: "By creating a vacuum within the tunnel and using pressurised vehicles, trains travelling along the structure could theoretically reach speeds of more than 3,000 mph. read more in ambitious builds HOLEY MOLEY Plans for HOLLOW skyscraper in the desert unveiled in £1tn Saudi vanity project ON TRACK New £2.3billion train route to connect two winter sun routes for the first time "Making the journey between London and New York barely an hour long." The current quickest commercial way of getting across the Atlantic and into the Big Apple is by plane. A non-stop flight currently takes between seven to eight hours meaning the vacuum tunnel could reduce travel time by up to a third of a day. This is if it can reach the unprecedented speeds experts believe it could hit. Most read in The Sun BUSTED Moment 'invisible' Scots cocaine kingpin 'linked to cartel' arrested in Colombia NEXT MAN UP Gers finally appoint new permanent chairman as lifelong fan starts after final LEFT FOR DEAD Man seriously injured in Scots park murder bid as police hunt e-scooter rider TOP TABLE Fans react as Gers legends spotted dining out with TV icon at top Glasgow haunt The current world's fastest public train, the Shanghai Maglev, reaches a top speed of just 286mph. But if the vacuum technology and use of jet propulsion can be developed then it could see the new train's engine capable of soaring to much higher heights. New £36billion mega sea tunnel set to be the longest & deepest in the world Despite researchers claiming to have the ability and knowledge to create such a fast-paced and simple route they are still facing a major issue. Transforming the idea into reality is expected to cost up to $20 trillion (£15.8tn). The almighty cost is believed to be the biggest stumbling block for any ambitious entrepreneur, bold businessman or even a nation itself to fund the project. Earlier this week however, X chief Musk commented on the possibility of the tunnel and claimed he could build it for a fraction of the price. The 53-year-old posted a reply to a viral post about the tunnel saying: "The @boringcompany could do it for 1000X less money." The Boring Company are a US infrastructure and tunnel construction company founded by Musk. They have already been leading the charge for seamless travel after creating a bustling, neon-coloured tunnel underneath Las Vegas. The company constructed a series of "hyperloop" tunnels around Las Vegas' Convention Center and near the Hawthorne, California SpaceX headquarters. Dubbed the Vegas Loop, it spans 1.7 miles and connects riders on the outskirts of the Convention Center facility to the city's public transit system. Its main goal to help with traffic congestion in the area. They are yet to formally announce any plans to work on the London to New York idea despite their founder's comments. The @boringcompany could do it for 1000X less money Elon Musk via X If Musk's prediction was to be true then it would bring the cost down to the billions range. The second major issue with such a transformative project is the potential time and effort it will take to successfully build and test it out. If it was to be built at the same rate as similar-style tunnel networks across the world, such as the Channel Tunnel then it could take 782 to complete, say Newsweek. It comes as developers are already looking into shortening the length of time it takes to travel between London and New York. A supersonic jet is in the works which is believed to take passengers across the ocean in 3.5hours. The XB-1 plane, from Boom Technology, has already completed seven out of ten subsonic test flights as engineers work towards making the aircraft supersonic. It has hit speeds of Mach 0.81 - or 499 knots, up from Mach 0.67 on its previous flight. And has reached a new max altitude of 23,015ft. Read more on the Scottish Sun XMAS BLOW Dozens sacked by Scots tech firm weeks before Christmas as bosses travel to Spain HAVE A BRAKE Entire Scots town to enforce new 20mph limit in major road shake-up Musk himself has also spoken about creating a rocket capable of quickening up the journey in recent years. SpaceX is reportedly building a vehicle that will fire tourists from London to New York in under half an hour dubbed the 18,000mph Starship . 6 Musk's The Boring Company have already built an underground tunnel in Las Vegas 6 Concept pictures of a high speed futuristic train Credit: Getty 6Sportscaster Greg Gumbel dies from cancer at age 78
Jack Henry's Symitar Solidifies Position as the Leading Platform for Credit UnionsATLANTA — The U.S. government’s premier research body has made an important discovery that could help create new drugs to lower “bad” cholesterol, and hopefully prevent heart attacks and stroke. But the interesting part of that story isn’t just the discovery itself, but the technology responsible for it: a relatively new type of microscope that essentially froze LDL cholesterol molecules, allowing researchers for the first time to get a detailed view of the structure of LDL and find new ways to approach stopping LDL buildup into body. Javascript is required for you to be able to read premium content. Please enable it in your browser settings.
SAN ANTONIO (AP) — Damari Monsanto's 22 points helped UTSA defeat Southwestern Adventist 117-58 on Thursday. Monsanto added six rebounds for the Roadrunners (6-5). Sky Wicks scored 20 points while shooting 8 for 12, including 4 for 7 from beyond the arc and added eight rebounds and three steals. Amir "Primo" Spears shot 5 of 10 from the field, including 1 for 5 from 3-point range, and went 5 for 6 from the line to finish with 16 points. Domonique Wilkins and Orlando Gooden each scored 19 points for Southwestern Adventist. Jason Garcia had 13 points, four assists and two steals. Monsanto led his team in scoring with 16 points in the first half to help put them up 61-24 at the break. UTSA extended its lead to 87-38 during the second half, fueled by a 13-3 scoring run. Wicks scored a team-high 10 points in the second half. The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by and data from .
Gangs in Haiti attack journalists covering the attempted reopening of the country's main hospitalMan City problems ‘not about one player’ – Pep Guardiola defends Erling Haaland
Jets' Rodgers insists he'll play despite knee issue, rookie Fashanu placed on IR with foot injuryMozambique Post-Election Violence: Nigeria Urges Aggrieved Political Players To Seek Legal RedressTHEY may be loves of my life but I’ll never forgive the grandkids for giving me Christmas shopping anxiety. Hitherto I was blessed with a late dash-and-grab approach to buying presents, leaving purchases to the last minute. Every shop assistant’s dream is the Christmas Eve late afternoon desperate bloke fresh from the pub. Occasionally, that was me and no Tiny Tim of mine ever woke on the 25th to an empty stocking. It’s a myth Oliver Cromwell banned Christmas but curbing carnal and sensual delights was a Puritan goal, replacing drunkenness and debauchery with fasting and prayer. Unremarkably, this proved unpopular with the great unwashed during an otherwise regrettably short-lived Republic of 1649-60. And who could blame common folk brightening miserable winters – thicker gruel and snogging toothless neighbours under mistletoe a more uplifting celebration than hunger and boredom. Yet in the unlikely event I was to be Cromwell’s belated successor as Lord Protector, top of my decrees would have been banning decorations, festive pub menus, playing Slade’s Merry Xmas Everybody, John Lewis saccharine adverts and, particularly, shopping until the start of December. Until this year, I started seeing and acquiring gifts for Little L and Canny C from September. Santa Granda’s first inkling of change was popping into an old-school Whitley Bay hardware store and walking out with a present for Little L. I won’t spoil his surprise by disclosing what was bought but the pressies will thrill him and altered my approach, probably forever. Christmas really is about kids and grandkids, and the thought of Little L and Canny C smiling as they excitedly unwrap their gifts left under the tree is heartwarming. No way is some bearded, tubby, red-suited stranger sneaking down a chimney stealing credit for the fruits of my changed life.
President-elect Donald Trump’s outlandish threat to seize control of the Panama Canal was made as his companies face ongoing financial and legal troubles in the Central American nation. During a Sunday speech and in subsequent posts on his social media platform, Truth Social, Trump whined about Panama’s canal fees and suggested that the U.S. could take the Panama Canal back from the Central American nation. However, an ongoing tax evasion lawsuit reveals the Trump Organization’s troubled history with Panama. “The fees being charged by Panama are ridiculous, highly unfair. Especially knowing the extraordinary generosity that has been bestowed to Panama, I say very foolishly, by the United States,” Trump said at Turning Point USA’s AmericaFest in Arizona. He continued : “If the principles, both moral and legal, of this magnanimous gesture of giving are not followed, then we will demand that the Panama Canal be returned to the United States of America, in full, quickly, and without question.” Not surprisingly, Panama’s president has already responded to Trump’s laughable comments. He essentially said that Panama’s canal is not for sale—which it’s not. Built at the turn of the 20th century, the canal was peacefully turned over to the Panamanians on Dec. 31, 1999, as a result of a 1979 treaty signed by President Jimmy Carter. But the president-elect’s not-so-subtle threats could be yet another instance of him holding grudges and seeking retribution against his political and financial enemies. And as his second term in the White House looms, Trump’s statements regarding Panama serve as another reminder of how he may wield power once officially in office. Indeed, Trump’s comments likely weren’t made in isolation. In 2019, ProPublica revealed that the owners of a hotel tower in Panama City that formerly operated under the Trump brand accused Trump Panama Hotel Management LLC and Trump International Hotels Management LLC of not paying the 12.5% required taxes to the local government. A legal filing at the time accused the companies of “intentionally evading taxes,” which left the hotel owners liable for millions of dollars. “Had Trump been honest with Ithaca about its failure to pay taxes on the management fees it earned and its failure to properly report employee salaries to Panama’s social security agency, Ithaca would have never entered into the [licensing deal],” read an updated complaint filed in 2020, according to Newsweek . While there’s no direct evidence linking Trump’s recent threat to the ongoing tax case, which is still pending in New York District Court, the timing of it all hasn’t escaped notice. Some prominent political commentators have suggested that Trump’s sudden interest in controlling the Panama Canal is derived from his companies’ outstanding tax issues. This wouldn’t be shocking if proven true. Since Election Day, the president-elect has made thinly veiled threats against and trolled several foreign nations, including Canada and Greenland . It’s entirely possible, then, that Panama is just the latest foreign nation to stoke Trump’s ire. The problem is that come January, the petty grudge-holder will have the power of the world’s most powerful military behind him. If you value having free and reliable access to the information and resources we provide, we’re asking for your help today. Will you make a donation of $5, $25, or whatever you can afford to help us reach our year-end goal?Stock market today: Wall Street slips as the 'Magnificent 7' weighs down the market NEW YORK (AP) — Stocks are closing lower as Wall Street ends a holiday-shortened week on a down note. The S&P 500 fell 1.1% Friday and the Dow Jones Industrial Average lost 333 points, or 0.8%. The Nasdaq composite dropped 1.5%. The “Magnificent 7” stocks weighed on the market, led by declines in Nvidia, Tesla and Microsoft. Even with the loss, the S&P 500 had a modest gain for the week and is still headed for its second consecutive annual gain of more than 20%, the first time that has happened since 1997-1998. The yield on the 10-year Treasury rose to 4.62%. 10 tips from experts to help you change your relationship with money in 2025 NEW YORK (AP) — As the calendar changes to 2025, you might be thinking about how to approach your relationship with money in the new year. Whether you’re saving to move out of your parents’ house or pay off student loan debt, financial resolutions can help you stay motivated. If you’re planning to make financial resolutions for the new year, experts recommend that you start by evaluating the state of your finances in 2024. Then, set specific goals and make sure they’re attainable for your lifestyle. An online debate over foreign workers in tech shows tensions in Trump's political coalition WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (AP) — An online spat between factions of Donald Trump’s supporters over immigration and the tech industry has thrown internal divisions in the president-elect’s political movement into public display. The argument previews fissures and contradictory views his coalition could bring to the White House. The rift laid bare tensions between the newest flank of Trump’s movement — that is, wealthy members of the tech world who want more highly skilled workers in their industry — and people in Trump’s Make America Great Again base who championed his hardline immigration policies. A 9th telecoms firm has been hit by a massive Chinese espionage campaign, the White House says WASHINGTON (AP) — A top White House official says a ninth U.S. telecoms firm has been confirmed to have been hacked as part of a sprawling Chinese espionage campaign that gave officials in Beijing access to private texts and phone conversations of an unknown number of Americans. Administration officials said this month that at least eight telecommunications companies, as well as dozens of nations, had been affected by the Chinese hacking blitz known as Salt Typhoon. But Anne Neuberger, a deputy national security adviser, said Friday that a ninth victim had been identified after the administration released guidance to companies about how to hunt for Chinese culprits in their networks. Most Americans blame insurance profits and denials alongside the killer in UHC CEO death, poll finds WASHINGTON (AP) — Most Americans believe health insurance profits and coverage denials share responsibility for the killing of UnitedHealthcare’s CEO — although not as much as the person who pulled the trigger. So says a new poll from NORC at the University of Chicago. It finds that about 8 in 10 Americans say that the person who committed the killing has “a great deal” or “a moderate amount” of responsibility for the Dec. 4 shooting of Brian Thompson. Still, some see suspect Luigi Mangione as a heroic figure. About 7 in 10 adults say coverage denials or health insurance profits also bear at least “a moderate amount” of responsibility for Thompson’s death. Another jackpot surpasses $1 billion. Is this the new normal? Remember this moment because it probably won’t last: A U.S. lottery jackpot is projected to soar above $1 billion, and that's still a big deal. Friday’s Mega Millions drawing is worth an estimated $1.15 billion. The prize has evoked headlines across the country, despite the nation's top 10 jackpots already having boasted billion-dollar payouts. Jonathan Cohen is the author of the book “For a Dollar and a Dream: State Lotteries in Modern America.” He says he expects jackpots to continue to grow in size. Larger payouts attract more media attention, increase ticket sales and bring in new players. How the stock market defied expectations again this year, by the numbers NEW YORK (AP) — What a wonderful year 2024 has been for investors. U.S. stocks ripped higher and carried the S&P 500 to records as the economy kept growing and the Federal Reserve began cutting interest rates. The benchmark index posted its first back-to-back annual gains of more than 20% since 1998. The year featured many familiar winners, such as Big Tech, which got even bigger as their stock prices kept growing. But it wasn’t just Apple, Nvidia and the like. Bitcoin and gold surged and “Roaring Kitty” reappeared to briefly reignite the meme stock craze. Richard Parsons, prominent executive who led Time Warner and Citigroup, dies at 76 NEW YORK (AP) — Richard Parsons, one of corporate America’s most prominent Black executives who held top posts at Time Warner and Citigroup, has died. He was 76. Parsons died Thursday at his Manhattan home. He was diagnosed with multiple myeloma in 2015 and cited “unanticipated complications” from the disease for cutting back on work a few years later. Financial services company Lazard confirmed his death. Parsons was a longtime member of the company's board. His friend Ronald Lauder told The New York Times that the cause of death was cancer. Parsons stepped down Dec. 3 from the boards of Lazard and Lauder’s company, Estée Lauder, citing health reasons. He had been on Estée Lauder’s board for 25 years. Israel strikes Houthi rebels in Yemen's capital while the WHO chief says he was meters away JERUSALEM (AP) — A new round of Israeli airstrikes in Yemen has targeted the Houthi rebel-held capital of Sanaa and multiple ports. The World Health Organization’s director-general said Thursday's bombardment took place just “meters away” as he was about to board a flight in Sanaa. He says a crew member was hurt. The strikes followed several days of Houthi attacks and launches setting off sirens in Israel. Israel's military says it attacked infrastructure used by the Houthis at the airport in Sanaa, power stations and ports. The Israeli military later said it wasn’t aware that the WHO chief was at the location in Yemen. At least three people were reported killed and dozens injured in the Sanaa airport strike. Holiday shoppers increased spending by 3.8% despite higher prices New data shows holiday sales rose this year even as Americans wrestled with still high prices in many grocery necessities and other financial worries. According to Mastercard SpendingPulse, holiday sales from the beginning of November through Christmas Eve climbed 3.8%, a faster pace than the 3.1% increase from a year earlier. The measure tracks all kinds of payments including cash and debit cards. This year, retailers were even more under the gun to get shoppers in to buy early and in bulk since there were five fewer days between Thanksgiving and Christmas. Mastercard SpendingPulse says the last five days of the season accounted for 10% of the spending. Sales of clothing, electronics and Jewelry rose.Valladolid beats fellow struggler Valencia to move off the bottom of La LigaPep Guardiola has stressed Manchester City’s current malaise is not down to one player as he again defended Erling Haaland. City’s 2-1 loss at Aston Villa on Saturday, the Premier League champions’ ninth defeat in 12 matches in all competitions, saw Haaland fail to score for the fifth time in six outings. Advertisement After the game the Norway striker told TNT Sports: “First I’m looking at myself. I haven’t been scoring my chances. I have to do better, I haven’t been good enough.” Advertisement City boss Guardiola subsequently stuck up for Haaland, who has netted 108 times for the club since joining in 2022, saying that “without him we will be even worse” and that “he needs to be delivered the right balls in the right spots”. And speaking on Christmas Eve at his press conference ahead of the Boxing Day home clash with Everton, Guardiola said: “It’s about us, not just one player. “When in the past we score goals and Erling was so prolific, helping us, it was because of the team. “And when you have problems at the back, in the middle, it is for everyone, it is a team, it is not about one player. It would be easy, if it was just one player, the reason why. It’s not about that. Advertisement PEP 💬 It is about us, not just one player... when you have problems at the back and middle, it is all about the team, not just one player... Erling [Haaland] is so important for us, will be important for us and has been and we need to use him better. pic.twitter.com/VBgJywyCT2 — Manchester City (@ManCity) December 24, 2024 Advertisement “Erling is so important for us, will be so important for us, has been. (We have to) try to do things better, to use him better.” He added: “In this situation, this tendency for all of us (is to say) ‘the reason why is this one, and this one and this one’. It’s about us, about everyone. “The guys are running, making effort more than ever. All the tendency ‘it’s because we don’t run, because we don’t fight, the reason why is this situation or this player or this manager’... It’s not about that. Advertisement “It’s many little details or big details that make all together not as good as we were. But we have another opportunity on Boxing Day.” City have a sidelined list that includes key midfielder Rodri, recovering from an anterior cruciate ligament injury suffered in September, and Ruben Dias, who was ruled out for up to four weeks after sustaining a muscular problem in the 2-1 loss to Manchester United on December 15. Fellow defender John Stones made his return to action in the Villa game after a foot issue, only to be substituted at half-time. City have been assessing him, along with goalkeeper Ederson and midfielder Matheus Nunes, both of whom were absent on Saturday. What is an unprecedented slump in results in Guardiola’s managerial career has featured six losses in eight in the league. And City, who had gone into the season targeting a fifth successive title under the 53-year-old, head into Christmas lying seventh in the table, 12 points adrift of leaders Liverpool having played a game more. Their next five league fixtures are all against sides currently in the bottom half, with Everton sat 15th. Guardiola emphasised the Toffees should not be regarded as the “perfect opponent”, and added: “It’s about us, to come back at our best. We will take time because we don’t have players, but we have to get results as quick as possible.” Ahead of the 12.30pm kick-off, City’s players are set to train on Christmas Day before staying at the training ground that night, and Guardiola said: “Today they will be at home with the families, tomorrow (they will be) in the morning and in the night they will be here – hopefully they want to be here, because it’s our job and our duty.”
1 2 Lucknow: The Sant Gadge auditorium of the Sangeet Natak Akademi was transformed into a stage where actors and other professionals, dressed as literary giants performed their iconic write up in their reading styles at the Koshala Literature Fest programme on Friday. Actor Amit Sinha dressed like poet Late Gopal Das ‘Neeraj', paid tribute reciting his famous poems like "Karwan Guzar gaya ghubaar dekhte rahe" and some other famous poems of ‘Neeraj'. Photographer Yogesh Aditya, dressed like Prabhu Lal Garg ‘Kaka Hathrasi' (famous for his satires), recited his famous Laxmi Vandana. Ankur Saxena, theatre artist and actor, outfitted like Harivansh Rai Bachchan, narrated his famous poem Madhushala. The audience got excited when poet Yogi Yogesh Shukla outfitted the famous poet Ramdhari Singh ‘Dinkar', narrated his famous poem ‘Rashmi Rathi' in his iconic style. Social activist and teacher Rupali Chandra, turned out like Subhadra Kumari Chauhan recited her iconic poem ‘Jhansi Ki Rani' which was appreciated by the audience. The programme was conducted by Chander Shekhar Verma who was outfitted like Bhagwati Charan Verma who also narrated the famous poem ‘Dosti' of Bhagwati Charan Verma. The skit was directed by Gopal Sinha who was assisted by make-up artist Dinesh Awasthi and his team.Australia’s technology sector has not yet felt the “whistleblowing wave” that has torn through Silicon Valley and the European Union, and a new guide is aiming to encourage more insiders to come forward and expose corporate wrongdoing. The past year has been marked by scandals at local technology companies, including WiseTech Global , Grok Academy and Metigy , with executives at each organisation resigning after alleged misconduct was revealed by whistleblowers who raised concerns. American Facebook whistleblower Frances Haugen. Credit: AFR Other tech scandals this year include a secretive algorithm that was found to be determining the fate of Australia’s immigration detainees and revelations that photos of Australian children have been used to train AI tools without the knowledge or consent of the children or their families. As the federal government moves ahead with its aggressive plans to regulate Big Tech and reduce the harm caused by social media and artificial intelligence, there are concerns that the role of whistleblowers has been lost in the debate. Technology-Related Whistleblowing: A Practical Guide will be launched on Monday and is the work of The Human Rights Law Centre, Reset Tech Australia, Psst.org and Digital Rights Watch. It builds on equivalent resources in the US and the EU. Frances Haugen, the high-profile American whistleblower who leaked the so-called “Facebook Files” said Australia was, in many respects, a proving ground for many of the world’s incumbent tech giants and an incubator for the good, bad, and the unlawful. ‘Few people, if any at all, actively set out to be whistleblowers. It is a difficult and hazardous path, but sometimes it’s the only path we have to serve the public interest, and even save lives.’ Facebook whistleblower Frances Haugen Haugen formerly served as a senior product manager at Facebook before quitting in May 2021 and leaking tens of thousands of internal documents that exposed how much the company knew about the harm it was causing, including knowingly promoting misinformation and hate speech, and pro-eating-disorder content to teenage girls. “Just in 2024, a wide variety of tech scandals came to light in Australia. These powerful investigations by top reporters detail a taste of what’s happening under the surface in data-powered digital companies. There are almost certainly more,” Haugen said. “Few people, if any at all, actively set out to be whistleblowers. It is a difficult and hazardous path, but sometimes it’s the only path we have to serve the public interest and even save lives.” Haugen said that she was first-hand proof that information can help transform companies and enact broader cultural and societal change. “The documents I collected and provided to the US Congress and the SEC, now known as the Facebook Files, have been instrumental in sparking global conversations about the impact of social media on society and continue to play a role in making a case for legislative reform around the world for digital platform companies,” she said. Human rights lawyer Kieran Pender says protections for whistleblowers are vital. The guide covers issues including what to think about before blowing the whistle – including employment risks, potential legal action and emotional risks – as well as the various protections that whistleblowers are afforded. Kieran Pender is an associate legal director at the Human Rights Law Centre and has worked with a number of whistleblowers in the technology sector, including several who have spoken to this masthead for major stories. Loading While Pender works with whistleblowers in the local sector, he would like to see more. He said that under existing laws, public and private sector workers in Australia have a range of protected avenues for raising concerns. “While the tech whistleblowing wave hasn’t yet made its way to Australia, we hope this guide will empower workers who witness technology-related harms to exercise their legal rights and speak up about wrongdoing,” he said. “Regulators must also take technology-related whistleblowing more seriously, including by ensuring they can receive lawful and protected disclosures. At a time of rapid regulatory change in Australia, it is vital that whistleblowing and whistleblower protections are part of the accountability ecosystem.” Alice Dawkins is the executive director at Reset Tech Australia, a lobby group dedicated to countering misinformation. For Dawkins, 2024 represented a banner year for the reporting of misconduct at tech companies. Alice Dawkins believes further tech industry disclosures are only a matter of time. “We’ve heard a lot this year about the harmful conduct of tech-enabled companies, and there is undoubtedly more to come out,” she said. “We know it will take time to progress comprehensive protections for Australians for digital harms. It’s especially urgent to open up the gate for public accountability via whistleblowing.” Jennifer Gibson is the co-founder and legal director of Psst.org, a platform providing whistleblowers with support and advice. “If Australia is serious about holding tech accountable, then it’s imperative whistleblowers be empowered to speak up about tech-related harms. They are the key to seeing inside the ‘black box’,” she said. “This new resource will help those on the inside who have key public interest information understand what their options are and where they can find support.” The Business Briefing newsletter delivers major stories, exclusive coverage and expert opinion. Sign up to get it every weekday morning . Save Log in , register or subscribe to save articles for later. License this article Whistleblowers Wisetech Global Workplace culture Facebook David Swan is the technology editor for The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald. He was previously technology editor for The Australian newspaper. Connect via Twitter or email . Most Viewed in Technology Loading
NSW Don't miss out on the headlines from NSW. Followed categories will be added to My News. After five years of construction, testing and delays, the first Parramatta light rail service has run on Friday morning. The new L4 Westmead and Carlingford Line officially opened on Friday, connecting Greater Parramatta via a 12-kilometer light rail network. The line has 16 stops with services running every nine to 16 minutes through Westmead’s health precinct, CommBank Stadium and Parramatta Square. Each tram can carry up to 400 passengers. Locals woke up early to be the first to ride on the brand new Carlingford to Westmead light rail line. The new Parramatta light rail line opened on Friday moring. Picture: Supplied With wide smiles and slightly sleepy eyes, many locals eagerly jumped on the new light rail at Carlingford, picking up more at each stop. One local man, Mark Mueller, 54, said he was “excited to be a part of history”. “It’s been a long time coming and all of the community is really excited about it,” he said. Getting up before 5am wasn’t an issue for 23-year-old Jessica Loch who enjoys these types of events. “I really enjoy going to these things, so I get up early all the time,” she said. “I think it’s (the light rail) a really nice connection between Carlingford and Parramatta cause it wasn’t around for a few years after the train got shut down.” Parramatta Light Rail route map. Picture: Supplied Marcus Wong, 28, almost missed the light rail and was relieved to have squeezed in at the last second. “Nearly didn’t make it this morning. It took a little bit longer than I was expecting, but we made it by four minutes so it was worth waking up,” they said. And while the light rail doesn’t connect to where they live, Wong said they were still “very excited” it was finally here. The first tram departed at 5am on Friday morning. Picture: Jonathan Ng Transport Minister Jo Haylen said it had been “a long wait for the people of western Sydney”. “This is a great day because we need more public transport services for these fast growing communities,” Ms Haylen said. “More than a 130,000 people live within walking distance of 16 new stops along 12km of line. We know this is going to be a game changer for people to get to work, to connect to each other, for kids to get to school. It’s great news for businesses as well. “For the first time in 80 years we’re gonna have a tram running with passengers down the centre of Parramatta.” Minister for Transport Jo Haylen said the service “will bring life” to Western Sydney. Picture: NewsWire / Damian Shaw The minister also confirmed the next stage is “building the bridge” between Wentworth Point and Melrose Park. “We’ll see construction on that bridge, a 320 metre long public transport and active transport connection next year,” Ms Haylen said. Ms Haylen reassured the light rail, buses and the metro will remain unaffected by the ongoing rail union strike. “Our bus, metro and light rail services are not affected but we will see disruption on our train today,” she said. “Industrial action is taking place and look, it is very inconvenient for passengers. We remind people to check their travel apps to allow extra time. “The government is taking every legal step available to make sure that we protect New Years Eve. We want certainty for passengers, and no level of industrial action when it comes to New Years Eve is acceptable. “That’s why we’re taking legal steps.” The Light rail has taken off in Parramatta. Picture: Supplied In a press conference outside the new light rail’s Westmead stop, Ms Haylen outlined areas such as the South Coast and the Metropolitan have been closed due to the disruption to the network by the strike. The rail line opening also includes “green track” technology that reduces noise and urban heat while incorporating active transport paths and bike facilities. Stage 2 of the light rail project is already underway, set to extend services to Sydney Olympic Park and accommodate the rapidly growing population of Western Sydney. The first service was filled with excited commuters. Picture: Jonathan Ng Deputy Premier Prue Car said the Labor Government is committed to investing in transport for Western Sydney. “We are focusing on delivering the essential services that Western Sydney needs most, and that includes reliable public transport to reduce travel times and congestion for local residents.” Transport Minister Jo Haylen thanked all of the workers who made the opening possible. “I want to thank and congratulate everyone who has been part of bringing this megaproject to life in Sydney’s second CBD, Parramatta,” she said. “This is the public transport network Western Sydney has been waiting for and will provide economic and social benefits for years to come. “By investing in projects like the Parramatta Light Rail, we’re helping our city grow around key public transport links. “The L4 will connect some of our fastest growing communities and premier destinations in the area, making it easier for people to live, visit and work here. “I want to thank the more than 15,500 workers who have played a part in delivering this important piece of transport history.” Residents and visitors can now enjoy connectivity in Sydney’s second CBD, with an estimated 22,000 daily users expected by 2026. Do you have a story for The Daily Telegraph? Message 0481 056 618 or email tips@dailytelegraph.com.au More Coverage Minns ministers’ report card: the good, the bad and the invisible James O’Doherty Experts slam ‘unhinged’ ALP nuclear scare campaign James Willis Originally published as Parramatta Light Rail L4 line opens after long delays Join the conversation Add your comment to this story To join the conversation, please log in. Don't have an account? Register Join the conversation, you are commenting as Logout More related stories NSW Nats in turmoil as top MP quits politics Keith Pitt’s retirement announcement has reignited tensions in the Nationals party room, with sources saying the veteran MP and Nats leader David Littleproud did not get on. Read more NSW Man wanted over alleged domestic violence charges A man wanted for allege domestic violence offences is being sought after by police after an outstanding warrant was placed in northern NSW. Read more
LDI 2025 Announced for December 3-9 in Las Vegas NEW YORK, Dec. 19, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Questex's Live Design International (LDI) 2024 delivered an unforgettable experience, bringing together over 13,000 global live event and entertainment design technology professionals and over 350 exhibitors. Packed with groundbreaking gear and technology, unparalleled education, and industry-defining moments, LDI 2024 proved why it remains the ultimate gathering for live entertainment and production technology. A Milestone Year for LDI 2024 Bursting with cutting-edge technology, unmatched education programs, and unforgettable networking opportunities, LDI 2024 reached new heights. The event featured the largest professional training program in its history, a 50% increase in LDInstituteTM classes, more than 125 LDInnovationTM Conference sessions, and a 10% larger exhibit floor showcasing over 350 exhibitors. "LDI 2024 was a vibrant celebration of the creativity, innovation, and community that power the live entertainment industry,” said Jessi Cybulski, Show Director, LDI. "With outstanding professional training, an electric show floor, and countless opportunities to connect, this year's event exceeded expectations. We can't wait to see what the industry will create in the coming year and showcase at LDI 2025.” LDI 2024 Highlights: "As far as the quality of programming and the quality of showroom floor, it's definitely some of the top memories I'll have when it goes to conferences and attending events,” said Michaela Ternasky-Holland, Creator, Immersive, Spatial, & Interactive Experiences (VR, AR, AI). "It's been really, really great to come back and experience LDI and just seeing the growth that has happened in just a short amount of time, both in the size of the overall event and then also the technology. If you're thinking about coming to LDI or getting into this industry, I would certainly recommend you taking advantage of this amazing opportunity that happens every year. Just great exposure to many of the manufacturers, all of the technology that you see on any of the events that are happening out there is here at the LDI conference. Even better are the people and the relationships that make all the live events in the industry happen. It's all about the people and the products, and it all happens here at LDI,” said Shane Smith, Sr. Director Technology, LMG, Inc. "It's the perfect opportunity to see a showcase of the latest and greatest in tech, and also network and meet with the movers and shakers who are in this exciting field. As a first-time attendee when the Expo Floor opened, I was like a kid walking into a candy store. It was just incredible. The lights, the sounds, the noises, the people, the technology. Yeah, this is a great experience,” said Brian Crane, Founder, Crane Light & Design. "This is the conference that I go to because all of my friends are here. I was a lighting person back in the day. And this is the place that I come to see all the new technology, the new equipment. And now that I'm working more on the rigging side of things, I get a chance to come and talk about that this year,” said Kristi Ross-Clausen, Director of Education and Training, TheaterHealthandSafety.com. "LDI is a wonderful thing every year where all the vendors come together and you get an opportunity to see all of the new things out there. But, also, it's really a meeting of the minds where you get all the people who are actually creating this cutting-edge technology into one space. So, it's a great place to talk to people, pick up on what's coming up as far as ideas goes and what people have in the pipeline,” said Tyler DeLong, Managing Partner, DeLong Rigging Solutions. "LDI to me is the mecca for theater technology around the planet. If you want to broaden your horizons and know more about your craft, whatever that craft is, whether it's rigging, whether it's lighting, whatever it is, you come to LDI to see the latest products, to talk to the leaders in the industry and learn more about what it is that they do that makes them successful. It's honestly just a great place to get together with the OGs in the industry to swap stories, meet new people, encourage the young ones today to get into the business and help it grow, because this business is growing exponentially every day,” said Tracy Nunnally, Owner, Vertigo. "This is my favorite show. Not only do a lot of our customers come here, you have end users and production companies from some of the leading companies. So, we've met so many incredible contacts here. Many touring companies have come to visit our booth, and we're really excited for them to use INFiLED with some of the top performers in the country. Such amazing contacts, just a real incredible place, and really just a fun place to be. So, I definitely recommend everyone to be at LDI,” said Larry Lipsie, Senior Sales Manager, INFiLED. "It's been a great show. We've had a lot of really great interactions with tons of different people. Attendance has been really good this year,” said Will Komassa, President/CEO, Blizzard Lighting LLC. "It's been a fantastic show. We've seen all kinds of people here from students who are just starting out in their careers in the entertainment technology world, all the way up to the most seasoned professionals that we've ever seen at this show,” said Ryan Hindinger, Market Manager CT≤, ACT Entertainment. Looking Ahead to LDI 2025 LDI 2025 will take place December 3-9, 2025 at the West Hall in the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas, NV, with the conference starting December 3 and the expo floor open December 7-9. For sponsorship opportunities, contact Kelly Turner, Director of Sales, at [email protected] . About Live Design International (LDI) Established in 1988, Live Design International (LDI) is built on a 36-year history as the essential trade show and conference for global live design professionals. Attendees come to LDI to see the latest gear and entertainment technology in action, covering audio, lighting, projection, video, staging, special effects, and XR. It is also a great opportunity to refresh knowledge and professional training, in addition to networking and finding inspiration from colleagues, manufacturers, and distributors at the vanguard of entertainment technology. For more information, visit http://www.ldishow.com/ . LDI will take place December 3-9, 2025, at the West Hall in the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas, NV. About Questex Questex helps people live better and longer . Questex brings people together in the markets that help people live better : hospitality and wellness; the industries that help people live longer : life science and healthcare; and the technologies that enable and fuel these new experiences . We live in the experience economy - connecting our ecosystem through live events, surrounded by data insights and digital communities. We deliver experience and real results. It happens here. Media Contact Charlene Soucy LDI [email protected]Virtua Fighter 5 is returning for the first time in 18 years, sort of