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Stock market today: Wall Street rises with Nvidia as bitcoin bursts above $99,000Marcos to sign P6.352-T 2025 budget on Rizal Day
Man accused in burning death of a woman on New York subway appears in courtWith the launch of Nigeria’s Oriental Energy Resources $315 million Floating Production, Storage and Floating (FPSO) vessel in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE), the nation’s crude production would increase by 30,000 barrels per day by the first quarter of 2025. The FPSO vessel, with a storage capacity of one million barrels, which would kick off with an initial production of 17,000 barrels per day before increasing its production capacity to 30,000 bpd would be departing for Nigeria in Q1 2025 and commence production at the Okwok Oil Field in the first half of 2025. According to a release by a Presidential spokesman, Stanley Nkwocha, Vice President Kashim Shettima, who represented President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the commissioning and naming ceremony of the vessel, described the facility as more than just a maritime infrastructure project, saying it was a pointer to the success of Tinubu’s reforms in the sector as well as Nigeria’s growing global influence. Speaking on Saturday while commissioning the oil facility at the Drydocks World Dubai Shipyard in Dubai, Shettima pointed out that what sets Nigerians apart was not merely the audacity of their ambition, but their unique understanding of where the world was headed. “This FPSO vessel is more than just a technological achievement; it is a symbol of Nigeria’s ambition and our readiness to meet global energy demands. Under President Tinubu’s leadership, we are witnessing the transformation of the oil and gas sector, which is central to our economic revitalisation efforts,” the Vice President said. According to him, the vessel was a critical link in Nigeria’s ambition to optimize productivity, enabling the country to become a central hub for hydrocarbon demand, both domestically and globally. The Vice President lauded Alhaji Muhammadu Indimi, the Executive Chairman of Oriental Energy Resources Limited, for his remarkable contributions to the industry. He stated: “Over the decades, Alhaji Muhammadu Indimi has stood as a model businessman and symbol of excellence in the oil and gas industry. So, it’s not surprising that his vision has transformed Oriental Energy Resources Limited into a global phenomenon. “This outcome testifies to what is possible when ambition is matched with perseverance and expertise. His journey reminds us that Nigeria is a land of opportunity, and with dedication, there is no limit to what we can achieve.” Shettima further explained that as Nigeria’s home-based refineries come alive, vessels like this would be instrumental in maximising the nation’s production capacity and driving economic growth. “Just about two weeks ago, His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, was in Paris, where he oversaw the expansion of one of Nigeria’s indigenous banks into that sphere of the European financial market. That historic moment reflected our collective aspiration as a nation,” he noted. Shettima further pointed out that the UAE demonstrated what could be achieved when natural resources were leveraged effectively, just as he reaffirmed the Nigerian government’s support for transformative initiatives “which align with Nigeria’s vision for expanding hydrocarbon exploration, storage, and refining. “This FPSO vessel symbolizes a future where Nigerian ingenuity meets global standards, and we will be here every step of the way to ensure its utility and success,” he added. Expressing delight in the project, Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, commended the vision and tenacity of the Chairman of Oriental Energy Nigeria, saying his investment would stimulate economic growth and create job opportunities for many Nigerians, as well as ensure steady growth and development of the nation’s economy.
The fifth season Smog isn’t merely 'environmental' issue anymore, it is public health emergency, socioeconomic burden Every winter, a thick layer of smog engulfs the Land of Five Rivers transforming our vibrant metropolises into a grey, choking haze. This annual catastrophe reminds us of the true cost of inaction – millions of lives, trillions of rupees, and around 7.0 per cent of Pakistan’s GDP lost to particulate matter. While it is most visible in the winter, its roots run deep, intertwined with longstanding deficiencies in urban planning, industrial regulation, and agricultural practices. Temperature inversions, trap pollutants close to the ground, creating a deadly cocktail of toxins that silently lingers in the air. Smog isn’t merely an ‘environmental’ issue anymore; it is a public health emergency, a socioeconomic burden, and a human security issue. In Punjab, over 11 million children endure life in one of the most polluted regions on earth, exposed to air quality index (AQI) levels as high as 1,900 – nearly 100 times the safe limits. Nasa’s satellites tell a similar story, with the OMPS Aerosol Index hitting as high as 4.5, with the maximum being 5, signaling an existential crisis. Despite being a public good, clean air remains a classic case of the tragedy of the commons – a shared resource exploited without accountability. Smog is Pakistan’s ‘fifth season’ the ultimate equalizer that spares no one and graciously infiltrates lungs rich and poor alike. It levels the playing field, indiscriminating, uniting us all under this thick choking layer of soot and dust. Yet, we have failed to truly measure, assess, and manage the true cost of smog, a public health crisis. The true cost of smog is vast and multifaceted, impacting health, the economy, society, and the environment. Health-wise, smog leads to respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, premature deaths, and cognitive impairments, overwhelming the healthcare system and reducing life expectancy. Economically, it damages crops, reduces worker productivity, disrupts tourism, and strains energy systems, costing billions annually. Socially, smog exacerbates inequalities, disrupts education, and stifles human development by limiting mobility and well-being. Environmentally, it accelerates biodiversity loss, pollutes soil and water, and intensifies climate change. These interrelated costs are just a glimpse of what is at stake, with estimates, or rather underestimates, incurring between $22 billion and $48 billion of air pollution-related costs to the Pakistan economy annually. Yet, authorities continue to downplay the crisis, reflecting this cognitive decay, a systemic failure of governance of the highest order. What do we need to survive the smog crisis? A good lung capacity, sheer willpower, and, if one is lucky, a cup of chai to chase down that particulate matter. Rationally, a bankrupt nation under a green lockdown surely cannot afford such stopgap measures like cloud seeding, water sprinkling, smog-free towers, and air purifiers - all of which stand devoid of any long-lasting impact. Achieving clean air demands a transformative, sustained set of actions rather than superficial fixes. These include holding industries accountable through penalties for emissions and incentivising cleaner practices to internalise environmental costs. A cleaner transportation future can be realised through improved public transit, cleaner fuels, and infrastructure for carpooling and biking. Educating 240 million people on the fundamentals of smog, air quality, and climate is imperative. A combination of green tech accelerators that enable youth to develop innovative solutions, air quality research centres that generate critical data and insights, and early warning systems could also play a pivotal role. Scaling up affordable and sustainable alternatives to stubble burning, such as Happy Seeders, along with the widespread adoption of zigzag technology in brick kilns across Pakistan, can enhance productivity while reducing emissions. Urban and industrial reforms – such as promoting urban forestry, transitioning to low-carbon energy, and improving waste management – can also significantly decrease the volatile organic compounds in the atmosphere. Regionally, Pakistan should lead efforts for a South Asian Air Quality pact, a charter of clean air quality, while forming synergies to decarbonise our economies at an unprecedented scale. Nationally, strong governance, backed by technocratic leadership and an adequate share for nature in the national budget, is essential to turn these transmission channels into a cleaner, healthier reality for all. It took Pakistan seven decades to register the devastating impacts of toxic air, and we surely cannot afford another seven to manage it. A staggering 98.3 per cent of the population now lives in areas where air quality exceeds the national standard of 15 g/m3. Alas, we now exist in a society where clean air has become a luxury, rather a basic right. It is evident that we have reached a tipping point, and must deliver, as the cost of inaction is too high, time too less, and impacts too grave. The writer is an environmental economist and can be reached at: hashimzaman1@gmail.com
In the aftermath of the Syria civil war, which resulted in the toppling of the Bashar al-Assad regime, Israel has laid waste to a major portion of Syria's military infrastructure, and launched a ground operation to capture strategic areas, and has seized Mount Hermon, Syria's tallest peak. Published: December 14, 2024 10:49 PM IST By : Israel has laid waste to a major portion of Syria’s military infrastructure, almost immediately after the fall of the Bashar al-Assad regime at the hands of rebel forces. Apart from annihilating Syria’s naval and air power, and razing all military bases near the Israel-Syria border, the Israeli Army also launched a ground operation to capture strategic areas, and has seized Mount Hermon, Syria’s tallest peak. Here’s why. Why Israel captured Mount Hermon? Israel’s seizure of Mount Hermon is being described by many experts as its ‘biggest victory’, even though Tel Aviv has asserted its occupation is temporary and the Israeli army will withdrawn from the region once its objectives are fulfilled. Defence experts believe that Mount Hermon is one of the most import strategic position in the region as it is highest point which overlooks Syria, Israel, and Lebanon. “This is the highest point in the region, which overlooks Lebanon, Syria, Israel. It is extremely important strategically. There is no alternative to the mountains,” said Efraim Inbar, director of the Jerusalem Institute for Strategy and Security (JISS). The summit of Mount Hermon is located in Syria, and served as a buffer zone that separated Syrian and Israeli armies for the last 50 years. But soon after Assad’s fall, Israeli forces breached the buffer zone and captured the strategic mountain. Although Israel claims that its occupation is “temporary”, on Friday, Israeli Defense Minister Herman Katz asked the army to prepare for harsh winter deployment, clear signs that Tel Aviv intends to stay in Syria for a while. “Due to developments in Syria, maintaining our control over the summit of Mount Hermon is of utmost security importance for Israel,” Katz said in statement. Israeli army advancing towards Damascus? Amidst Israel’s growing campaign in Syria, a report from Voice of the Capital, a Syrian activist group, has claimed that the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) are heading towards Damascus. The group claims, which could not be independently verified, stated that the Israeli army had reached Beqaasem, about 25 km from the Syrian capital. When queried, an Israeli military spokesman denied the reports that Israeli forces were advancing towards Damascus, and asserted that Israel respects previous agreements. According to Syrian activist group Voice of the Capital, Israeli forces (IDF) have advanced from this place and reached Beqassem, about 25 kilometers (15.5 miles) from the Syrian capital. However, their claim could not be independently confirmed. This week an Israeli military spokesman denied that his country’s forces were advancing towards Damascus. Israel has insisted that it respects old agreements and its troops are nowhere near Damascus. Why Mount Hermon is important for Israel? According to military experts, Israel’s capture of Syria’s Mount Hermon a major success as its gives Jewish nation a priceless strategic asset. At 9,232 feet tall, Mount Hermon peak is the highest point in either Syria or Israel, and second only to a peak in Lebanon. Even Iranian military experts, Israel’s sworn enemies, believe this is a massive success for Tel Aviv. “Sometimes people say that in the age of missiles, land is not important – this is absolutely false,” they said. In academic paper published in 2011, Efraim Inbar, had outlined the strategic advantages presented by Mount Hermon. “It can be used to electronically monitor Syrian territory, allowing Israel to know about incoming threats in advance,” he wrote. Inbar argued that advanced technological options such as aerial surveillance are expensive and the site would help Israel save money. Aerial surveillance equipment such as AWACS aircraft or reconnaissance drones could be shot down by anti-air missiles. Israel sets sights on Damascus? While the Israeli Army has denied claims its forces are advancing towards Damascus, its worthy to note that the Mount Hermon peak is located barely 35 kilometers away from the Syrian capital. IDF, which already controls the foothills of the mountain, now has the capability to launch artillery strikes on Damascus, if needed. Following the fall of Bashar al-Assad, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that he has an “extended hand” to a new government in Syria. But in a post-October 7 world, Netanyahu and other national security heavyweights have made it clear that they are not going to take any chances. Who controls Golan Heights? The Golan Heights region is a strategic plateau in southwestern Syria adjoins Mount Hermon. It was captured by Israel in the 1967 war, and the Jewish nation has occupied the area ever since. In 1973, Syria had made a bid to reclaim the region in a surprise attack, but the attempt failed and Israel annexed it in 1981. Notably, Israel’s occupation of Golan Heights is illegal under international law, but US recognised Israel’s claim to the area during the previous Trump administration. However, other major countries, including India, China, and Russia, do not recognise Israel’s claim to Golan Heights. Even though Israel has occupied some of the lower slopes of Mount Hermon for decades and even operates a ski resort in the area, the peak was in Syria’s possession until recently. For breaking news and live news updates, like us on or follow us on and . Read more on Latest on . Topics
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Cryptocurrencies have reshaped the investment world, providing lucrative opportunities for those willing to take the leap. For years, people have been searching for investments that can outpace inflation, outperform traditional stocks, and deliver life-altering returns. Crypto has consistently stepped up to the plate, with stalwarts like Bitcoin and Ethereum paving the way. But as the market evolves, newer players and innovative projects are stealing the spotlight. For investors eyeing growth, now’s the time to explore what these rising stars have to offer. Enter Qubetics , the newest talk of the town, offering the kind of potential most crypto enthusiasts dream about. With its presale already raking in millions and analysts forecasting unimaginable returns, Qubetics is shaping up to be the crypto investment of the year. But how does it compare to tried-and-true projects like Ethereum and Stellar? These two giants have earned their stripes, becoming mainstays in portfolios across the globe. This week, we’re diving deep into these three cryptocurrencies—Qubetics, Ethereum, and Stellar—to see why they’re among the best crypto to buy this week. Whether you’re a seasoned investor or just starting, this trio has something for everyone. Qubetics ($TICS): A Rising Web3 Powerhouse Qubetics has taken the crypto world by storm, proving that innovation and utility can still drive massive investor interest. As the world’s first Web3 aggregator , Qubetics combines multiple functions under one roof, including its revolutionary decentralised VPN (dVPN). Currently in its 12th presale stage, Qubetics has already raised over $6 million, sold more than 324 million $TICS tokens, and attracted over 9400 holders. At a price of just $0.0311, it’s positioned as an affordable entry point with the potential for exponential growth. Analysts are bullish on $TICS, with projections estimating a jump to $0.25 by the end of the presale, representing a 703.21% ROI. If the token reaches $15 after its mainnet launch, early adopters could see returns as high as 48,092.91%. These figures aren't just promising—they’re transformative. Imagine investing $1,000 today and watching it grow to over $480,000 if predictions hold true. Qubetics isn’t just about numbers. Its dVPN technology is a game-changer for anyone navigating privacy concerns in today’s interconnected world. For businesses, dVPN ensures secure communications, particularly for industries like law, finance, and healthcare that handle sensitive information. Professionals working remotely can bypass restrictions and access global opportunities without risking data breaches. Even for individuals, it offers peace of mind—whether you’re streaming, gaming, or simply browsing, your data remains private and secure. The timing couldn’t be better. With its presale nearing completion, $TICS offers a rare opportunity to get in early on a project with immense growth potential. Qubetics has proven that it’s not just another token—it’s a solution-driven ecosystem ready to redefine the Web3 experience. Ethereum (ETH): The Foundation of DeFi Ethereum has cemented itself as the go-to platform for decentralised applications (dApps), smart contracts, and the entire DeFi movement. As the second-largest cryptocurrency by market cap, Ethereum is the cornerstone of blockchain innovation, powering everything from NFT marketplaces to decentralised lending platforms. What makes Ethereum so indispensable is its versatility. It’s not just a currency; it’s the backbone of countless projects, enabling developers to build and deploy applications without needing permission. This open-source ethos has fostered a thriving ecosystem where creativity and innovation flourish. Over the years, Ethereum has proven its resilience. Despite market fluctuations, it remains one of the most trusted investments in crypto. Ethereum 2.0 has addressed long-standing issues like scalability and energy efficiency, ensuring the network’s sustainability for years to come. Investors see Ethereum as a stable yet rewarding asset, a perfect balance for those seeking both growth and security. For anyone looking to dip their toes into the crypto world or expand their portfolio, Ethereum is an obvious choice. It’s not just another coin; it’s an integral part of the blockchain revolution, one that continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible in finance and beyond. Stellar (XLM): The Champion of Cross-Border Payments Stellar often flies under the radar, but its impact on global finance is undeniable. Designed to facilitate seamless, low-cost cross-border payments, Stellar offers a blockchain-based alternative to traditional banking systems. For those who value utility over hype, XLM is a gem worth considering. Unlike other cryptocurrencies that focus on broad applications, Stellar stays true to its mission of making money transfers faster and cheaper. This focus has led to collaborations with major institutions like IBM and partnerships with banks worldwide. Whether it’s a small business in South America paying suppliers in Europe or a family sending remittances back home, Stellar makes it possible in seconds at a fraction of the cost. What sets Stellar apart is its reliability. In an industry often plagued by volatility and speculation, Stellar provides a stable platform that delivers on its promises. It’s not chasing headlines; it’s solving real problems. For investors, this means holding a token that’s not only valuable but also backed by tangible use cases. Stellar might not offer the same explosive ROI as newer tokens like Qubetics, but its steady growth and clear utility make it a must-have for any well-rounded crypto portfolio. Conclusion: Three Coins, Endless Opportunities The crypto market is brimming with options, but not all are created equal. For those seeking high potential, Qubetics offers a rare chance to get in early on a project poised for massive growth. Its combination of Web3 innovation and privacy-focused technology makes it one of the best crypto to buy this week . Ethereum continues to dominate as the backbone of decentralised finance, providing stability and growth for long-term investors. Stellar delivers unmatched utility, revolutionising how we think about cross-border transactions. The choice is clear: each of these tokens serves a unique purpose, catering to different investment goals. If you’re serious about maximising your returns, don’t wait. Dive into Qubetics’ presale, stack up on Ethereum, or add Stellar to your holdings. The opportunity is here—you just need to take it. Qubetics: https://qubetics.com/ Telegram: https://t.me/qubetics Twitter: https://twitter.com/qubetics Join our WhatsApp Channel to get the latest news, exclusives and videos on WhatsApp _____________ Disclaimer: Analytics Insight does not provide financial advice or guidance. Also note that the cryptocurrencies mentioned/listed on the website could potentially be scams, i.e. designed to induce you to invest financial resources that may be lost forever and not be recoverable once investments are made. You are responsible for conducting your own research (DYOR) before making any investments. Read more here.LEDUC COUNTY, ALTA. - Alberta’s government says it will invest up to $50 million to support the creation of a first-in-Canada drilling test site to support technology development in the oil, gas, geothermal and lithium industries. Read this article for free: Already have an account? To continue reading, please subscribe: * LEDUC COUNTY, ALTA. - Alberta’s government says it will invest up to $50 million to support the creation of a first-in-Canada drilling test site to support technology development in the oil, gas, geothermal and lithium industries. Read unlimited articles for free today: Already have an account? LEDUC COUNTY, ALTA. – Alberta’s government says it will invest up to $50 million to support the creation of a first-in-Canada drilling test site to support technology development in the oil, gas, geothermal and lithium industries. The Alberta Drilling Accelerator is intended to be an open-access, industry-led site where companies can test drilling technologies at deep depths, high temperatures and varying rock types. A location for the hub site has yet to be determined. While no binding contracts have been signed, the province says several companies have expressed strong interest in serving as anchor tenants, including Calgary-based geothermal company Eavor Technologies, Tourmaline Oil Corp. and international oilfield service supermajor Halliburton. The money the province is providing will come from the industry-funded Technology Innovation and Emissions Reduction (TIER) program, which Alberta’s heavy emitters are required to pay into as part of the province’s industrial carbon pricing system. The provincial government says the Alberta Drilling Accelerator could start drilling in 2026. Winnipeg Jets Game Days On Winnipeg Jets game days, hockey writers Mike McIntyre and Ken Wiebe send news, notes and quotes from the morning skate, as well as injury updates and lineup decisions. Arrives a few hours prior to puck drop. This report by The Canadian Press was first published Nov. 25, 2024. Companies in this story: (TSX:TOU) Advertisement
Pep Guardiola has opened up on a Manchester City tradition that has been broken this year amid the club’s poor run of form. Following defeat to Aston Villa at the weekend , City have won just once in their last 12 games across all competitions and have slipped to seventh in the Premier League . Now 12 points behind league leaders Liverpool, it’s almost certain Guardiola’s side will not be crowned champions of England for a fifth year in a row as the target must surely be to ensure a top-four finish and Champions League qualification. With the Spaniard calling on his players to give it their all over the festive period in an attempt to turn around their dire form, Kyle Walker has revealed City boss has called the squad in to train on Christmas Day. Ultimately this is with the Boxing Day clash at home to Everton in mind. Though it’s not something that City players have become accustomed to in recent seasons. "We've been fortunate in the past couple of seasons that we haven't had to train on Christmas Day,” the City captain said when speaking on his ‘ You'll Never Beat Kyle Walker’ podcast . “We are doing this season because we've got Everton at 12.30 on Boxing Day. “But the last couple of seasons we've had Christmas Day off, which has been very nice..." Going into further detail with regards to training plans on Christmas Day, Guardiola issued a rallying cry to his players demanding total commitment. “We train today and we train tomorrow night, and then we stay here and then play on Boxing Day,” he said in the pre-match press conference. “Tonight and tomorrow, they will be with their families. Tomorrow night they will be here. Hopefully they want to be here - it is our job.” Guardiola will be hopeful for a change in fortunes on Boxing Day as there is a scenario where they can drop to 10th if they lose to Everton and other results go against them.
The federal government has sought the support of the United States government in conducting a livestock census aimed at keeping proper records of Nigeria livestock and curbing farmer-herder clashes in Nigeria. Idi Mukhtar Maiha, minister of livestock development, revealed this when he hosted Richard M. Mills Jr, the United States ambassador to Nigeria, and his delegation, to discuss ways of enhancing collaboration for the development of Nigeria’s livestock sector. Mills Jr. in his remarks, highlighted the United States’ commitment to building commercial trade relationships between Nigerian livestock producers and U.S. food exporters. He announced plans to support 25 Nigerian exporters and livestock professionals in attending the world’s largest industrial food processing expo in Atlanta next month. He said the three-day event will connect Nigerian stakeholders with global livestock experts, offering opportunities to establish business partnerships and advance best practices in livestock management. The US ambassador further emphasised the vital role of livestock in addressing food insecurity and fostering trade while alleviating tensions between farmers and herders. “Collaboration in areas such as breed improvement, food processing, and technology adoption can unlock the immense potential of Nigeria’s livestock sector,” he stated. In his remarks, the minister of livestock development expressed the federal government’s dedication to transforming the sector into a globally competitive and sustainable industry. “The U.S. government has actually been working with Nigeria, for a long time including the livestock sector. But with the creation of the ministry, there is a reinvigorated appetite, that’s why he has come to explore further areas where we can collaborate. “We discussed on the issue of breed improvement, and the U.S. is leading that direction in both dairy and beef. “We also spoke about livestock health, veterinary services, broadening international trade and also spoken on collaboration from the U.S. government to assist us in doing livestock census so that we can confirm exactly the number of animals we have in the country.” Maiha outlined strategic priorities for the ministry, including modernising Nigeria’s 417 grazing reserves with essential infrastructure such as water, schools, clinics, markets, and abattoirs. He disclosed plans to improve breed performance, enhance veterinary services and adopt advanced technology like cattle tagging and traceability systems to tackle challenges such as cattle rustling. “Your Excellency, it is our desire to make full utilisation of the 417 grazing reserves we have in this country. By this, we want to see to the re-grazing of those areas, getting all the necessary inputs in terms of rangeland, pasture, water, having also the infrastructure for the comfort of the animals and the herders’ families,” Maiha stated. The minister also called for increased collaboration in research and development to boost vaccine production, animal healthcare and productivity across the livestock value chain. He welcomed the United States’ offer to facilitate capacity-building exchange programs for Nigerian professionals, enabling them to adopt global best practices tailored to local needs.2024 in review: Jewish booksStock market today: Wall Street rallies ahead of ChristmasEven though the Michigan-Ohio State game doesn't have the same stakes this year as it did in recent seasons because the Wolverines are having a down year, that doesn't mean there's any love lost between the two states. The Ohio Department of Transportation trolled Michigan with a message on one of the road signs before Saturday's showdown between the Big Ten rivals. This article will be updated soon to provide more information and analysis. For more from Bleacher Report on this topic and from around the sports world, check out our B/R app , homepage and social feeds—including Twitter , Instagram , Facebook and TikTok .
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When the NCAA's playing rules oversight committee this past spring approved the use of coach-to-player helmet communications in games for the 2024 season, Kolpacki, Michigan State's head football equipment manager, knew the Spartans' QBs and linebackers were going to have a problem. "There had to be some sort of solution," he said. As it turns out, there was. And it was right across the street. Kolpacki reached out to Tamara Reid Bush, a mechanical engineering professor who not only heads the school's Biomechanical Design Research Laboratory but also is a football season ticket-holder. Kolpacki "showed me some photos and said that other teams had just put duct tape inside the (earhole), and he asked me, 'Do you think we can do anything better than duct tape,?" Bush said. "And I said, 'Oh, absolutely.'" Bush and Rylie DuBois, a sophomore biosystems engineering major and undergraduate research assistant at the lab, set out to produce earhole inserts made from polylactic acid, a bio-based plastic, using a 3D printer. Part of the challenge was accounting for the earhole sizes and shapes that vary depending on helmet style. Once the season got underway with a Friday night home game against Florida Atlantic on Aug. 30, the helmets of starting quarterback Aidan Chiles and linebacker Jordan Turner were outfitted with the inserts, which helped mitigate crowd noise. DuBois attended the game, sitting in the student section. "I felt such a strong sense of accomplishment and pride," DuBois said. "And I told all my friends around me about how I designed what they were wearing on the field." All told, Bush and DuBois have produced around 180 sets of the inserts, a number that grew in part due to the variety of helmet designs and colors that are available to be worn by Spartan players any given Saturday. Plus, the engineering folks have been fine-tuning their design throughout the season. Dozens of Bowl Subdivision programs are doing something similar. In many cases, they're getting 3D-printed earhole covers from XO Armor Technologies, which provides on-site, on-demand 3D printing of athletic wearables. The Auburn, Alabama-based company has donated its version of the earhole covers to the equipment managers of programs ranging from Georgia and Clemson to Boise State and Arizona State in the hope the schools would consider doing business with XO Armor in the future, said Jeff Klosterman, vice president of business development. XO Armor first was approached by the Houston Texans at the end of last season about creating something to assist quarterback C.J. Stroud in better hearing play calls delivered to his helmet during road games. XO Armor worked on a solution and had completed one when it received another inquiry: Ohio State, which had heard Michigan State was moving forward with helmet inserts, wondered if XO Armor had anything in the works. "We kind of just did this as a one-off favor to the Texans and honestly didn't forecast it becoming our viral moment in college football," Klosterman said. "We've now got about 60 teams across college football and the NFL wearing our sound-deadening earhole covers every weekend." The rules state that only one player for each team is permitted to be in communication with coaches while on the field. For the Spartans, it's typically Chiles on offense and Turner on defense. Turner prefers to have an insert in both earholes, but Chiles has asked that the insert be used in only one on his helmet. Chiles "likes to be able to feel like he has some sort of outward exposure," Kolpacki said. Exposure is something the sophomore signal-caller from Long Beach, California, had in away games against Michigan and Oregon this season. Michigan Stadium welcomed 110,000-plus fans for the Oct. 26 matchup between the in-state rivals. And while just under 60,000 packed Autzen Stadium in Eugene, Oregon, for the Ducks' 31-10 win over Michigan State three weeks earlier, it was plenty loud. "The Big Ten has some pretty impressive venues," Kolpacki said. "It can be just deafening," he said. "That's what those fans are there for is to create havoc and make it difficult for coaches to get a play call off." Something that is a bit easier to handle thanks to Bush and her team. She called the inserts a "win-win-win" for everyone. "It's exciting for me to work with athletics and the football team," she said. "I think it's really exciting for our students as well to take what they've learned and develop and design something and see it being used and executed."Dollarama Inc. Q3 Preview: Cautious Consumer May Help Its Sales
Protected personal information of more than 1 million people — including about 4,700 Social Security numbers — was accessed from Illinois Department of Human Services files in April, the agency confirmed last week. State agencies are required under the Illinois Personal Information Protection Act to notify the news media of certain reportable breaches of security. In a statement, the Illinois Department of Human Services said it experienced a privacy breach on April 25 when a phishing campaign was used to access a number of employee accounts and the files associated with the accounts. Phishing involves sending seemingly legitimate requests for personal or sensitive information such as passwords or account numbers. IDHS said the files that were accessed included Social Security numbers for 4,704 people. In addition, public assistance account information was accessed for more than 1.1 million people. While that information did not include Social Security numbers, it did have names, public assistance account numbers and some combination of addresses, birthdate, Illinois State Board of Education Student Information System identification numbers and cellphone numbers. People are also reading... "Upon learning of the phishing incident, IDHS worked in partnership with the Illinois Department of Innovation and Technology to investigate the extent of the breach and to determine which individuals were included," according to the statement. "This was an in-depth forensic analysis, followed by a manual review of all compromised files to determine the nature of the breach. IDHS continues to train its employees on how to avoid and report phishing attempts." Written notices were sent to those whose Social Security numbers were involved and whose current address was on file. Those notices provide details about available actions, including credit monitoring. Get Government & Politics updates in your inbox! Stay up-to-date on the latest in local and national government and political topics with our newsletter.
Helping to drown out the noiseSpotify just announced that it’s begun rolling out a new “Recents” page that keeps tabs on everything you’ve been listening to. This section of the app will hold onto content for up to 90 days and integrates with music, podcasts and even audiobooks. The page also keeps an eye on saved content. The platform says this should be useful for “picking up a paused podcast, finding last week’s earworm or finally playing that saved album or audiobook.” This page replaces the “Listening History” tab and will work for both free and Premium subscribers. All you have to do is tap on your profile picture, open the sidebar and click on Recents. Everything will be listed in chronological order, but there are some available filters to help winnow down the search. Spotify also says users will be able to find this page by scrolling through the home feed. The tool releases today for iOS and Android, but could take a while before it reaches every user throughout the globe. The music and Joe Rogan streaming app has been busy lately. It beefed up its audiobook tools , which is nice, and added an in-app cover art maker for playlists . CEO Daniel Ek recently crowed that 2024 will likely be the platform’s first full year of profitability. The company’s most-recent quarterly financial results show an increase in year-to-year revenue of 19 percent and a free cash flow growth increase of 238 percent, totalling over $4 billion. It also now has 602 million monthly active users and the stock currently hovers at around $470 per share. Musicians, however, still get $0.003 to $0.005 per stream. What the heck, Ek.
LaLiga: Ancelotti hints at new positions for Vinicius Jr, MbappeWhen Horace Roberts Jr. was freed after 20 years in prison following his conviction for the murder of a Jurupa Valley woman he did not commit, he emerged into a changed world. Among the innovations occurring while Roberts was behind bars from 1998 to 2018 was the improvement of DNA technology that allows investigators to identify criminal suspects more precisely and from smaller sample sizes. That technology sprung Roberts from his “lion’s den” and pointed authorities to three men who were convicted of killing Terry Cheek, Roberts’ former mistress, and who are scheduled to be imprisoned in January. Roberts testified against the men who not only let Roberts take the fall for the crime but also framed him. “I was relieved,” Roberts, 66, said in a recent interview about his post-prison life from his home in South Carolina. “I was just glad that they were found guilty of what they did.” While Roberts now says “I feel good about where I am” and an $11 million payout in 2021 from Riverside County to settle his wrongful-incarceration lawsuit has eased the transition, the return to a society that had moved on without him was initially difficult. Roberts would wake up at night and wonder whether he was still sleeping in a cell. “When I was in prison you had to think one way, and that was always survival. I had to put on this brave face and just stand my ground. When I got out, it’s different. It’s kind of hard to let my guard down and show that fear,” he said. “Getting around by myself, I was scared,” Roberts said. “Scared to move around; I didn’t know how to react to that. I had not been just locked up but locked in. I had to learn how to go about and do things, shop, and not only that but interact with people on the outside.” Michael Semanchik, who as an attorney for the California Innocence Project took up Roberts’ case and who now leads The Innocence Center, has seen others struggle to adapt after long prison stays. “It’s pretty common when people come home that they don’t like to be in big crowds, they keep their backs to the walls,” Semanchik said. “It’s an ingrained prison mentality that takes years to get past. Choices are so severely limited in prison. Horace could go to the commissary but there are like two types of toothpaste, and clients go into CVS and see 50 types of toothpaste, and that is overwhelming.” But Roberts was quickly able to surround himself with family members who he said “100%” believed he was innocent. Because his wife, Debra, moved east across the country with the 7-year-old twins and a 17-year-old stepdaughter to be closer to family, Roberts never saw his children during his incarceration in several California prisons. So it was an emotional moment when Roberts reunited with his children — now all grown up — at an airport. And yes, Debra waited for him. “It was pure joy. Tears of joy,” Roberts said. “It was like we had never left each other because we were able to communicate with them. I just wanted to be able to see them. I wouldn’t have traded that moment for the world.” Roberts acknowledged that he had some catching up to do in other areas. There was the creation in 2007 of a device that flummoxed Roberts, a computer that fits in your pocket with all sorts of gizmos embedded in it that can even make and receive phone calls. The iWhat? “A lot about these cell phones have changed,” Roberts said. I don’t know how to do anything other than (call and) answer, and I do a little texting. That technology, I’m 20 years behind it.” History also changed as Roberts watched from his cell block. Barack Obama, the first Black president, served two terms. “It was a proud moment for me, but also the Black race,” Roberts said. “Who would have thought we would have lived to see a Black president?” Donald Trump, who starred in the reality show “The Apprentice” while Roberts was imprisoned, had a new job — president of the United States — at the time Roberts was freed. Roberts lamented that he returned to a less-respectful and more angry society. Twice when he worked as a garbageman following his release, Roberts said, teens pulled guns on him over minor disputes. “Old fool, get out of the way,” one said, according to Roberts. “Things are too fast out there for these young people,” Roberts said. “They are too quick to react and not think. ... I never knew teenagers were like they are now. They would rather pick up a gun than put up two fists. It’s hard for me to relate to that.” As for that new DNA technology, Roberts is grateful that his attorney seized upon it to help him win his freedom. “Without Mike Semanchik and his (California) Innocence Project, I’d probably most likely still be in jail,” Roberts said. How he was convicted In April 1998, Cheek, 32, vanished on what was supposed to be a drive from her home in what is now Jurupa Valley to Roberts’ Temecula apartment to pick him up and drive to Quest Diagnostics in San Juan Capistrano, where Roberts supervised her on the night shift. That day, Cheek, according to testimony, was driving Roberts’ pickup, which she sometimes borrowed. But she never arrived at Roberts’ apartment. The pickup was found abandoned on the shoulder of the 15 Freeway about two miles from Lee Lake near Corona, where Cheek’s body was discovered on rocks several days later. Investigators zeroed in on Roberts, even though court records showed Cheek was going through a messy divorce with Googie Rene Harris Sr. Roberts didn’t help himself, trying to cover up his affair with Cheek when questioned by investigators and lying about his whereabouts the night she disappeared. Relatives of Cheek claimed to have found a distinctive black purse belonging to Cheek in Roberts’ apartment when they gathered her belongings. And Roberts mistakenly claimed ownership of a watch found near Cheek’s body. Roberts was convicted after a third trial and sentenced to life in prison. Harris Sr. testified in at least two of the trials and again at Roberts’ parole hearings. In 2013, Semanchik submitted DNA evidence that revealed a match with Googie Rene Harris Jr., who was Cheek’s stepson. DNA found under Cheek’s fingernails belonged to Joaquin Latee Leal III — Harris Sr.’s nephew — according to testimony. Prosecutors said Harris Sr. and Leal strangled Cheek in her garage as she left for work because Harris Sr. was concerned that his wife would take the home from him in the divorce. They loaded the body into the pickup and Harris Jr. and Leal took Cheek to the lake. The Harrises and Leal were charged with murder — and Harris Sr. with a sentencing enhancement of murder for financial gain — and Roberts was declared factually innocent . Harris Sr. and Leal were convicted of murder in August; a jury recommended that Harris Sr. — who still maintains his innocence — receive the death penalty and Leal be sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole. A judge is scheduled to rule on their sentences on Jan. 10. Harris Jr., who testified against Leal and his father, pleaded guilty to accessory to a felony and is scheduled to report to jail in January to serve a one-year sentence. First taste of freedom Roberts stayed the night in a cottage in San Diego the day he was freed. “The first thing that following day, I got up, walked outside and I looked up and I was so thankful and grateful for that moment, just to be able to get out and do what I wanted to do and not have someone directing me on what they want me to do. It was so peaceful, and I enjoyed that peace,” Roberts said. Roberts said he likes keeping things simple these days. He lives in Ladson, about 20 miles from Charleston, with Debra and their grandchildren, ages 3, 4 and 9. Roberts used the lawsuit settlement from Riverside County to purchase a home and a couple of cars. He said he has no interest in traveling the world, even though he can afford it. One of his big goals was to learn taekwondo; He said he will receive a black belt in the martial art in March. “It was easy to come home and it seemed like I fit right in,” Roberts said. “Home is where my heart is, anyway. Being home keeps me rooted and grounded. I don’t have to go outside of that and do too much or want anything. It’s all right here. “I am in the right place, I believe,” Roberts said. Related Articles Crime and Public Safety | LA County judge weighing shutdown of Los Padrinos Juvenile Hall Crime and Public Safety | Bitter divorce, threats of violence between slain Woodland Hills doctor, ex-wife, court records show Crime and Public Safety | Girls’ soccer coach in Arcadia accused of possessing child porn; more than 600 images found, authorities say Crime and Public Safety | Before doctor was killed, Texas man lay in wait for him at Woodland Hills clinic, prosecutors say Crime and Public Safety | A nonprofit leader, a social worker: Here are the stories of the people on Biden’s clemency list
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