DETROIT – The reliability of electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids has dramatically improved, narrowing a wide gap with gas-powered automobiles, according to the latest survey by Consumer Reports. But vehicles with internal combustion engines and gas-electric hybrids are still far more dependable, the survey found. Recommended Videos Consumer Reports subscribers, who filled out surveys during much of 2024, reported that electric vehicles had 42% more problems than gas autos on average. But that was down from 79% more in the 2023 survey. The survey released Thursday measured reliability of vehicles mainly from the 2022, 2023 and 2024 model years. Plug-ins, which travel a short distance on battery power before a hybrid powertrain kicks in, had 70% more problems than gas vehicles, but that was less than half the difference found in last year's survey. The reason for the improvement? EV and plug-in technology are maturing, said Jake Fisher, head of Consumer Reports' automobile test center. “As the automakers get more experience with the new technologies and new platforms, they will improve,” Fisher said. He said he expects plug-in and electric vehicles to keep getting better, further closing the gap with gas vehicles. But one thing may stand in the way: Automakers often test new automation and other features on EVs, and the new stuff is prone to glitches. “Until we get to where an EV is just a car that does practical things with their own powertrain, I'm not sure they'll ever catch up totally” to gas vehicles, Fisher said. The new technology may offer more than the next wave of EV buyers would like, as EVs move from early adopters to more practical mainstream buyers, Fisher said. “There are people who just want a car that’s easy to maintain,” he said. “I don’t use gas. I don’t need this automation feature and electric door handles or whatever the heck they are putting out.” Consumer Reports has noted that concerns about EV and plug-in quality add to issues that may have buyers hesitating before switching from gasoline engines, including concerns about higher up-front costs, too few charging stations and long charging times. Gas-electric hybrids, which switch from internal combustion to electric power to get better mileage, were about as reliable as cars with combustion engines. While the technology is pretty technical, it has been refined for a quarter century, mainly by pioneer Toyota, Fisher said. “CR's tests have shown that they are often quieter, quicker and more pleasant to drive than their gasoline-only counterparts,” he said. Through September of this year, the last month for which all automakers have reported results, electric vehicle sales are up 7.2%, plug-in sales rose 11.6%, but hybrids led with a 32.6% increase, according to Motorintelligence.com. Consumer Reports said its 2024 survey of subscribers representing about 300,000 vehicle owners found that Subaru was the most reliable brand for the first time, followed by perennial top finishers Lexus and Toyota. Rounding out the top five were Honda and its Acura luxury brand. It was the first time since 2020 that neither Toyota nor its Lexus luxury brand were in the top spot, Fisher said. The highest-ranked brand from a U.S.-based automaker was General Motors' Buick at No. 11. The five lowest of 22 brands that were ranked were electric upstart Rivian, followed by GM's Cadillac luxury brand, GMC, Jeep and Volkswagen, Consumer Reports said. The magazine and website didn't get enough data this year to rank Alfa Romeo, Chrysler, Dodge, Fiat, Infiniti, Jaguar, Land Rover, Lincoln, Lucid, Maserati, Mercedes, Mitsubishi, Porsche and Ram. Electric vehicle sales leader Tesla finished 17th, down three spots from last year's survey. Subaru took first place in the survey by following the same formula that Toyota uses to get high reliability scores: It doesn't make huge changes when updating or unveiling new vehicles, Fisher said. Instead of going with new engines or transmissions, Subaru carries parts over from the prior generation. “They don't fix what's not broken,” he said. “They continue to refine their products, and because the products perform quite well, they don't have to have big changes.” Rivian, Fisher said, is a new company with new electric models that have more glitches. Since the company is a startup, it can't use proven powertrains from prior generations yet. “It's expected that you're going to have issues when you have nothing to carry over” from previous model years, he said. The survey found that the gas-powered Toyota RAV4 small SUV was the most reliable vehicle, followed by the Toyota Corolla compact car. The RAV4 Prime plug-in hybrid was third, followed by the RAV4 gas-electric hybrid, Fisher said. Consumer Reports' survey of its subscriber base does not represent all vehicle purchasers in the U.S. or the population that bought specific vehicle types. The survey was to be released at a meeting of the Automotive Press Association of Detroit.
LIMA (AFP) – A nose job by Peruvian President Dina Boluarte sparked intense controversy on Tuesday, with some lawmakers calling for her to be removed from office for not delegating her responsibilities during the procedure. The procedure that Boluarte, 62, underwent in the summer of 2023 has been discussed at length on social media and in the local press, but was only officially confirmed on Tuesday, when Boluarte’s former prime minister Alberto Otarola revealed it to a congressional commission. “She told me she was going to get a rhinoplasty... a surgery on the nose, but for breathing problems,” Otarola told lawmakers conducting an inquiry into the matter. The congressional oversight commission is probing Boluarte’s whereabouts between June 28 and July 10, 2023, when she completely disappeared from public view. This is when, local media reports said, Boluarte had the surgery at a clinic in Lima without informing the public or delegating her powers to Congress. Otarola said that during her recovery period, Boluarte carried out her duties virtually. “There was no absence of power at that time, because the surgical procedure had no major complications,” added Otarola, who was dismissed by Boluarte in March. Some lawmakers and legal experts now charge that Boluarte’s behaviour constitutes a constitutional violation and are calling for her removal. “It would be cause for dismissal... because the president should have asked permission from Congress,” lawmaker Juan Burgos, who heads the oversight commission, told reporters. Vice President of Congress Patricia Juarez sought to quell the dispute, calling it “a storm in a glass of water”.Source: Best Oasis Best Oasis added that “at least here, stability has a slightly positive ring, even if it’s built on scarcity rather than strength. To wrap it up it was a uniformly dull week. Protectionist trade policies are once again in focus, particularly with the possibility of their increased use by the U.S., raising concerns about their broader economic impact. Globally, such measures could decrease trade volumes, disrupt markets, and trigger retaliatory actions from other nations, potentially leading to escalating trade conflicts. Trade-dependent economies, particularly in Asia, could face notable challenges. A shift away from global cooperation might also undermine efforts to sustain economic stability. These outcomes remain potential scenarios—highlighting that in the dynamic world of trade and politics, unpredictability is the only constant”. In a separate note this week, shipbroker Intermodal commented that “the markets witnessed another quiet week. Indian Economy’s GDP increased by 5.4% in second fiscal quarter of 2024, below market estimations at 6.5%, attributed to weaker consumption and decreased government spending. Nevertheless, positive signals are provided by the agricultural sector, with production expected to be robust, favoured by strong monsoons. Increased agricultural production could help ease inflation in food prices. The recycling market didn’t see much action since last week, with subdued activity and scrap steel prices maintaining same levels. The Indian Rupee continued to depreciate against US Dollar last week, closing at 84.57. Bangladesh is confronting several economic and political challenges, amid anticipation for the timeline of the elections. The banking system is encountering issues of trust, as the head of Central Bank is accusing financial institutions and large companies for scheming to move funds out of the country”. Source: Intermodal According to Intermodal, “the recycling market was lethargic this week, presenting reduced demand and manufacturing contraction. Prices offered for recycling and steel plate prices retreated comparing to last week. While there is some demand for acquisition of tonnage for demolition, this is restricted by policies imposed by the government regarding evidencing progress to meet HKC regulations. No major developments were reported to the Pakistani market this week. The country is on the edge of political instability with the confrontation between the current government and supporters of the former PM, reaching a boiling point. Recycling market is on a standstill, with around 60% reduced activity comparing to last year. The price of local steel prices recorded loss, facing also competition from Iranian cheaper imports. Gadani recyclers are trying to secure a good deal, by checking prices with potential buyers. The lack of tonnage for recycling is setting pressure to recyclers, since they will need to cover fixed costs and on top of that incur some capital expenditure to upgrade the facilities according to HKC regulations. Turkey appears to be close to entering a recession, as the country’s GDP contracted by 0.2% in Q3 2024, marking the second consecutive quarter of decline. While inflation eased compared to October, it remained above market expectations. The Turkish Lira weakened against the U.S. Dollar, dropping to 34.70. Despite the sluggish market conditions, ship recycling prices have remained stable, likely due to the limited availability of ships for recycling”, the shipbroker concluded. Nikos Roussanoglou, Hellenic Shipping News WorldwidePTC Therapeutics Reports Inducement Grants Under Nasdaq Listing Rule 5635(c)(4)
MINOT — Gov. Doug Burgum will be the governor for only 11 more days. Despite this, he was obliged to deliver a budget address to a joint session of the North Dakota Legislature, which is in Bismarck meeting for its organizational session. This makes no sense. The budget address represents Burgum's priorities, which, while there is no doubt a significant amount of overlap, are not necessarily those of Gov.-elect Kelly Armstrong, who voters chose to replace Burgum in November. Which means that Burgum's address to lawmakers was a colossal waste of time. This isn't Burgum's fault, as, again, the budget address is obligatory, but the degree to which he indulged himself during the speech sure is. Burgum joked at the beginning of the address that he'd been given an hour to speak but would talk for as long as he wanted to anyway. Boy, did he, speaking for nearly one hour and 45 minutes. No wonder this guy has had such a rocky relationship with the Legislature (you can watch the full address here). Burgum's speech was one part self-congratulatory victory lap and one part detailed budget proposal. The latter is pointless because, again, Burgum will only be in office for 11 more days, so the whole thing was an exercise in Burgum patting himself on the back. Don't get me wrong, Burgum has accomplished some meaningful things during his time in office and deserves credit for them. He was also, I'll admit, open-handed with his praise for other state officials and the lawmakers. I don't want to come off as mean. Anyone familiar with my work knows I've been deeply disappointed with Burgum since he decided to further his political career by betraying his moderate inclinations and going full-on MAGA. It's just that I'm not sure going the better part of an hour over the schedule with a superfluous budget address is all that couth, whoever it is that's doing it. And I'm not sure why we're spending time and taxpayer dollars on a budget address that, as a practical matter of policy, doesn't amount to a hill of beans. It's time for lawmakers to put an end to this, so that in four years hence (or eight years, if he's reelected) we're not subjected to outgoing Gov. Kelly Armstrong standing before the Legislature delivering a budget address that may or may not reflect the priorities of his just-elected successor. We need to shake up the timing so that we aren't wasting time on a pointless budget address from a lame-duck governor who won't be involved in the budget and policy decisions of the upcoming legislative session. Section 54-03.1-02 of the North Dakota Century Code requires the Legislature to meet for an organizational session no earlier than Dec. 1 and no later than Dec. 15 of even-numbered years. In cycles when we elect a new governor (or reelect an incumbent), the swearing-in happens on Dec. 15. It seems like we could tweak this timing. Maybe the law could establish the swearing-in date for new governors as the first day of the organizational session. However we do it, we should ensure that the person delivering the budget address — who spent what is likely a not-small amount of state resources on crafting the complicated speech — is the same person who will be in office while the budgets and policies for the next biennium are set.Kylie Kelce starts ‘Not Gonna Lie’ podcast after fans beg her to make her own showA judge on Monday rejected a request to block a San Jose State women's volleyball team member from playing in a conference tournament on grounds that she is transgender. The ruling by U.S. Magistrate Judge S. Kato Crews in Denver will allow the player, who has played all season, to compete in the Mountain West Conference women's championship opening this week in Las Vegas. The ruling comes in a lawsuit filed by nine current players against the Mountain West Conference challenging the league's policies for allowing transgender players to participate. The players argued that letting her compete was a safety risk and unfair. While some media have reported those and other details, neither San Jose State nor the forfeiting teams have confirmed the school has a trans woman volleyball player. The Associated Press is withholding the player's name because she has not commented publicly on her gender identity. School officials also have declined an interview request with the player. Crews' ruling referred to the athlete as an "alleged transgender" player and noted that no defendant disputed that the San Jose State roster includes a transgender woman player. San Jose State will "continue to support its student-athletes and reject discrimination in all forms," the university said in a statement, confirming that all its student-athletes are eligible to participate under NCAA and conference rules. "We are gratified that the Court rejected an eleventh-hour attempt to change those rules. Our team looks forward to competing in the Mountain West volleyball tournament this week." The conference did not immediately respond to an email seeking comment. The players filed a notice for emergency appeal with the 10th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals. Crews said the players who filed the complaint could have sought relief much earlier, noting the individual universities had acknowledged that not playing their games against San Jose State this season would result in a loss in league standings. He also refused a request to re-seed the tournament without the forfeited losses. The judge said injunctions are meant to preserve the status quo. The conference policy regarding forfeiting for refusing to play against a team with a transgender player had been in effect since 2022 and the San Jose State player has been on the roster since 2022 -– making that the status quo. The player competed at the college level three previous seasons, including two for San Jose State, drawing little attention. This season's awareness of her reported identity led to an uproar among some players, pundits, parents and politicians in a major election year. Crews' ruling also said injunctions are meant to prevent harm, but in this case, he argued, the harm has already occurred. The games have been forfeited, the tournament has been seeded, the teams have made travel plans and the participants have confirmed they're playing. The tournament starts Wednesday and continues Friday and Saturday. Colorado State is seeded first and San Jose State, second. The teams split their regular-season matches and both get byes into Friday's semifinals. San Jose State will play the winner of Wednesday's match between Utah State and Boise State — teams that both forfeited matches to SJSU during the regular season. Boise State associate athletic director Chris Kutz declined to comment on whether the Broncos would play SJSU if they won their first-round tournament game. Utah State officials did not immediately respond to emails seeking comment. The conference tournament winner gets an automatic bid to the NCAA tournament. San Jose State coach Todd Kress, whose team has not competed in the national tournament since 2001, has said his team has been getting "messages of hate" and that has taken a toll on his players. Several teams refused to play against San Jose State during the season, earning losses in the official conference standings. Boise State and Wyoming each had two forfeits while Utah State and Nevada both had one. Southern Utah, a member of the Western Athletic Conference, was first to cancel against San Jose State this year. Nevada's players stated they "refuse to participate in any match that advances injustice against female athletes," without elaborating. Nevada did not qualify for the conference tournament. The nine current players and others now suing the Mountain West Conference, the California State University Board of Trustees and others include San Jose State senior setter and co-captain Brooke Slusser. The teammate Slusser says is transgender hits the volleyball with more force than others on the team, raising fear during practices of suffering concussions from a head hit, the complaint says. The Independent Council on Women's Sports is funding a separate lawsuit against the NCAA for allowing transgender women to compete in women's sports. Both lawsuits claim the landmark 1972 federal antidiscrimination law known as Title IX prohibits transgender women in women's sports. Title IX prohibits sexual discrimination in federally funded education; Slusser is a plaintiff in both lawsuits. Several circuit courts have used a U.S. Supreme Court ruling to conclude that discriminating against someone based on their transgender status or sexual orientation is sex-based discrimination, Crews wrote. That means case law does not prove the "likelihood of success" needed to grant an injunction. An NCAA policy that subjects transgender participation to the rules of sports governing bodies took effect this academic year. USA Volleyball says a trans woman must suppress testosterone for 12 months before competing. The NCAA has not flagged any issues with San Jose State. The Republican governors of Idaho, Nevada, Utah and Wyoming have made public statements in support of the team cancellations, citing fairness in women's sports. President-elect Donald Trump likewise has spoken out against allowing transgender women to compete in women's sports. Crews was a magistrate judge in Colorado's U.S. District Court for more than five years before President Joe Biden appointed him as a federal judge in January. Get local news delivered to your inbox!Ambeon Holdings PLC, a diversified conglomerate with a strong presence across multiple sectors, said yesterday it continues to strengthen its position in Sri Lanka’s financial services industry through strategic investments. Recently, the company increased its stake in Seylan Bank PLC by 0.98%, bringing its total holding to 8.61% of the bank’s ordinary voting shares. On Friday the Company bought 3 million Seylan Bank shares at Rs. 70 each in a deal worth Rs. 210 million. This move underscores Ambeon’s growing influence in the financial sector, complementing the recent acquisition of a 9.02% stake in DFCC Bank PLC by Ambeon Capital PLC and its subsidiaries. These investments reflect Ambeon Group’s focused strategy to expand its footprint in the banking and financial services sector in Sri Lanka, which is a key pillar of the nation’s economic landscape. The company’s overarching strategy involves diversifying its investments across high-growth industries while reinforcing its leadership in its current sectors. Ambeon’s diverse portfolio spans sectors such as financial services, real estate, technology, and manufacturing, and it has a notable presence in both local and international markets. With its strategic investments, Ambeon Holdings PLC is well-positioned to remain a key player in Sri Lanka’s economic development, strengthening its influence across both traditional and emerging sectors. Ambeon Holdings PLC, a subsidiary of Ambeon Capital PLC, is strategically expanding its presence in high-growth sectors through a series of targeted investments. The company’s diverse portfolio across multiple industries demonstrates its broad investment approach and commitment to capitalising on market opportunities for long-term growth. The subsidiaries of Ambeon Holdings PLC include Taprobane Capital Plus Ltd. – a leading financial services provider with a wealth of experience in capital markets and government securities in Sri Lanka, Millennium I.T.E.S.P. Ltd., - Sri Lanka’s leading information systems solutions providers delivering IT solutions for many industries, including banks and finance, telecommunications, apparel, and leading conglomerates. Its strong foothold in IT solutions underscores Ambeon’s commitment to technological innovation and Colombo City Holdings PLC (a diversified investment holding company with interests in real estate, further broadening Ambeon’s presence in the property sector, an area of growing importance in Sri Lanka’s economy.). Additionally, Ambeon Holdings holds a 22.4% stake in the Dankotuwa Group, which includes Dankotuwa Porcelain PLC and its subsidiary Royal Fernwood Porcelain Ltd. This involvement in the manufacturing and export sector adds another layer of diversification to Ambeon’s investment strategy. The Ambeon Holdings PLC Board of Directors comprise of eminent personalities – Chairman/Independent Non-Executive Director Sujeewa Mudalige, Executive Director/Group Chief Executive Officer Dr. Sajeeva Narangoda, Independent Non-Executive Director Mangala Boyagoda, Independent Non-Executive Director Savanth Sebastian, Independent Non-Executive Director Samresh Kumar, Independent Non-Executive Director Jacky Tsoi, Non-Executive Director Ruwan Sugathadasa, and Independent Non-Executive Director Duminda Weerasekare.
Inventus Mining Commences 80-Hole Drill Program at Pardo Receives OJEP Funding Support and Grants Stock OptionsShares of SEALSQ (LAES) were up 4% in mid-day trade on Friday after hitting a fresh two-year high of $11 earlier in the day after the company regained compliance with Nasdaq's minimum bid price requirement. The compliance was met after the stock maintained a closing bid price of at least $1.00 per share for 10 consecutive business days, from Dec. 11 to Dec. 24, 2024. The semiconductor and post-quantum technology provider also announced the launch of its SEALQUANTUM.com Lab described as “a state-of-the-art research and innovation hub dedicated to supporting organizations in transitioning to quantum-safe encryption.” “Our SEALQUANTUM.com Lab is more than just a platform; it's a commitment to future-proofing our clients' security. By combining cutting-edge research with actionable tools, we're empowering businesses to navigate the complexities of quantum cryptography with confidence," said CEO Carlos Moreira in a statement. According to an ongoing poll on Stocktwits, most retail investors are holding the stock for the long haul, while others a buying the dips – both looking at further upside on the stock. However, around 20% of the respondents are cautious about the recent surge in SEALSQ’s price and choose to avoid it until the heat cools off. One user correctly predicted that the stock would reach double-digits on Friday. Others are holding on until at least the SpaceX launched scheduled for Jan. 15. The WISeKey International Holding (WKEY) subsidiary has been among the most popular stocks on Stocktwits this year. At last check, the stock was among the top trending tickers on the platform. Over the last 365 days, the stock has seen its watcher spike by 1,371% and message volumes have jumped 4,792%. So far this year the stock has gained 667%, outperforming the wider semiconductor sector. For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com.< Read also: Rigetti Stock On Track To Hit New Record Amid Santa Claus Rally, Quantum Hype: Retail Turns Bullish
Organisations are facing a new era of nonfinancial reporting with the European Union’s Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), now in effect. CSRD reporting is standardised through the European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS), making it easier to make direct comparisons and improve consistency across twelve sector-agnostic standards. Among the standards is the requirement for organisations to report data on their own workforces (ESRS S1). Quick Hits The ESRS reporting standards will be mandatory for all companies covered by the CSRD, which began in January 2024. The CSRD has a broad jurisdictional scope, and for companies operating within the European Union or with substantial business in the EU, understanding and implementing the CSRD’s obligations is crucial. The CSRD goes beyond existing voluntary reporting guidance in the United States to ensure that disclosures are complete and comparable. U.S. companies that fall within the scope of these new requirements will likely require a dedicated report to remain compliant with the EU. Under ESRS S1, organisations will be required to report on the number of work-related incidents and/or complaints and severe human rights impacts, and any related fines, compensations, or sanctions that occurred during the reporting period. This includes work-related incidents of discrimination, such as discrimination on the grounds of race, age, and gender. ESRS S1 also includes incidents relating to workplace harassment as a specific form of discrimination. Organisations will be required to disclose strategies they have employed to identify and manage any material impacts of the social factors or matters mentioned in the standard on their own workforces, together with the accompanying risks and opportunities. The objective of ESRS S1 is also to enable users to understand the extent to which the organisations align and comply with human rights conventions in the EU and internationally. Reporting Obligations In addition to the above, applicable organisations will be required to disclose the following: any specific policies in place aimed at the elimination of discrimination, such as those that promote equal opportunities, encourage expressions of gender identity, and aim to protect workers from harassment; if the following grounds for discrimination are specifically covered in any applicable policies: sexual orientation, racial and ethnic origin, age, colour, sex, gender identity, disability, religion and political beliefs, or other forms of discrimination specified under EU regulation and national laws; any specific policy commitments addressing the areas of workplace inclusion or positive action plans for people deemed to be at increased risk of vulnerability in the organisation’s workforce; any information about the above policy’s implementation through specific procedures to target the prevention and mitigation of discrimination; and response plans to handle reports related to discrimination or related incidents. Covered Organisations The CSRD applies to all public and private entities previously subject to the Non-Financial Reporting Directive (NFRD) and to large EU companies (including subsidiaries of non-EU parent companies) that meet at least two of the following criteria: More than 250 employees Net turnover (revenue) of more than €50 million Total assets of more than €25million It will also apply to parent companies from a third country (including the United States) with securities listed on an EU-regulated market, regardless of whether the issuer is located within the EU or in a non-EU country. There are some exceptions to the above scope, such as the exclusion of micro-undertakings or the inclusion of large credit and insurance organisations regardless of their legal form. Crucially, the CSRD extends to non-EU organisations, making its implications global. Timeframe The reporting requirements under the CSRD will be implemented in four stages, the first of which is currently taking place. The ESRS took effect on January 1, 2024, but reporting will commence in 2025 for the 2024 financial year. The ESRS requirements are already applicable to organisations previously under the scope of NFRD (which is being phased out in favour of the CSRD). The inclusion of listed small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the scope is likely to occur in 2025, with a two-year opt-out period for qualifying organizations to defer reporting obligations. In 2028, non-EU parent firms that exhibit significant activity and presence within the EU will become subject to the CSRD. This means parent companies with at least one subsidiary subject to the CSRD, or that have had a net turnover in the EU of more than €150 million in each of the last two consecutive financial years, or that have at least one EU branch that brought in more than €40 million in net sales in the preceding financial year. Penalties Member states will have the authority to issue penalties for noncompliance; therefore, sanctions may differ, resulting in a potential spectrum of financial penalties and risk of reputational damage.Naomi (Harshbarger) Frisbie was born July 9, 1921, to Sarah Olive (Clark) and Orvil Earl Harshbarger in Drummond, Idaho. Her parents had moved out west from Kansas to start a farm of their own they named the Yellowstone Ranch as it was southwest of Yellowstone National Park in Southeast Idaho. Naomi Frisbie Naomi found her spot in the family very special with four older brothers to entertain her and an older sister to share chores and then a younger sister to play with. They had the only home in the area with indoor plumbing and generated their own electricity. Her bedroom was upstairs above the bathroom, so they received heat from below and had a gorgeous view of the Teton Mountains to the east. She always commented how she loved to look out on her mountains and what an idyllic childhood she had with hard work, family and friends, weekend picnics, walking or skiing to school, listening to the radio, reading, swimming in nearby Squirrel Creek and riding horses, especially her favorite, Old Sunny. Her dad farmed hay and grain with a team of horses and later with a steam tractor before modernizing to combustion engine machinery. During the depression her parents took on any extra work they could to keep the family and farm together. Naomi didn’t have extras but on a farm she didn’t go hungry. She kept the depression economy mentality of many people from her generation and struggled to get rid of anything because she might need it someday. Waste not, want not. Education was encouraged in her family for both boys and girls, so it was important to Naomi and she received a 4-H scholarship to study home economics in Idaho, California and Oregon where she obtained her bachelor’s degree in 1947. During World War II times were hard and she had to work to save money before finishing her education. She taught high school in Kendrick, Idaho and later taught kindergarten and adult tailoring in California. She met Harold Raymond Frisbie while attending Oregon State University. One of her favorite sorority sisters was Marjorie Frisbie who had talked her brother into attending a dance with her as there would be an “older” gal. He wasn’t interested in dancing with young girls because he had just returned from 6 years serving in the Navy. After that dance a courtship developed including lots of dances with Harold in his be-ribboned Navy uniform and Nomy in the dresses she designed and sewed. They were married in Ashton, Idaho on September 7, 1947. After marriage, Harold and Naomi moved to California where Harold had a job as a chemical engineer for Shell Oil Company. Naomi taught kindergarten in Martinez before son Norman was born in 1950. Joella followed in 1953 (not in 1952 like Margie likes to tease). Like every other mother in the neighborhood, Naomi stayed home with the children. From California, Harold’s work took them back to Oregon for 4 years, returning to California in 1957, 3 weeks before Margie was born. Naomi led a very busy life raising a family, which included her mother who moved in with the family when Naomi’s dad died soon after Margie’s birth. She still found time to volunteer with Boy Scouts, 4-H, and PTA. There are many young girls who fondly remember learning to sew and cook in her 4-H classes. She was proud to have been a founding member of the Martinez, CA branch of American Association of University Women and stayed active in that organization for over 70 years. Naomi returned to teaching in the 1960s when her children were a little older. She substituted at Martinez middle and high school and taught night classes in sewing. She taught Microwave cooking when microwaves were the newest technology. She also took night classes in pottery and upholstery, recovering most of the family furniture. Naomi and Harold always enjoyed the beauty of the Hood River Valley, where Harold had been raised and he still had family. They bought a small apple orchard to retire on and moved to the farm in 1982. As young retirees, they had lots of energy for projects around their house and on the farm, but they also enjoyed being around family and joining the local community. They grew a large garden, went camping, had picnics, picked huckleberries (always a full day adventure – ending with very purple tongues). Naomi joined the Odell Garden Club and enjoyed years of flower arranging that brought out her artistic abilities and she made many wonderful friends. She always had flower arrangements in her house and would share arrangements for almost any reason. She specialized in the tall (3-foot) arrangements at the county fair – and was proud of receiving a best of show honor on more than one occasion. Naomi was happy that all three of her children decided to move to the Hood River Valley and live nearby raising their families. Naomi was always game to go to any school or sporting activity where one of her 3 grandsons was participating. Sometimes you had to explain the sport to her (she never understood soccer), but she would cheer with enthusiasm. All three of her grandsons know how to make her Christmas crescent rolls and they carry on the tradition to this day. She and Harold loved playing games with grandsons and their friends. All three boys are excellent at math having spent many hours playing dominos and counting dots to make multiples of five and receive the maximum points possible. Naomi also hosted family reunions, picnics, dinners, camping trips and always made delicious pies for special occasions. Her trick was to use ice water (not room temperature) in the crust, roll the dough on a pastry cloth and using an unvarnished wood rolling pin. She even packed a cast iron skillet on a two-day backpack trip down Eagle Creek to fry eggs and bacon for breakfast. That’s dedication. In the go-go years of retirement, Harold and Naomi took many trips including Elder Hostels and cruises with friends. They purchased a trailer and used it for trips to Arizona and to Brookings, OR to escape the winter inversion at home. Always they were joining with family and friends on these trips – so evenings would be a group meal and a card game for their evening entertainment. You would be amazed what she made in that tiny trailer kitchen oven. Her biggest travel adventure was a solo visit to stay with her brother Jake in Tanzania, East Africa, where she went on safari and was awed by the beauty of the country, the friendly people she met during her stay and all the wild animals in their natural environment – not in a zoo. Naomi started going to the Hood River pool after her first knee replacement and went consistently for the next 34 years. The Hood River Valley Parks and Rec awarded her a lifetime pass when she had her 100th birthday party at the pool. She swore that her consistent exercise and socialization, at the pool, was a major contributor to her long and healthy life. She had a huge loss when Harold died in 2015. They had been married for 67 years. She survived, but was knocked back when her son, Norman, died in 2016. Again, she picked herself up and was determined to live in the home that she loved. She was able to stay there, living alone, for 7 years. This spring she moved to Parkhurst Place where she enjoyed the care and companionship she received, and the special care provided by Bobbi’s Way. At 103, she was the last survivor of her generation in the family. She is survived by her daughters and their husbands: Joella and Paul Dethman, Margie and Jim Byrne; three grandsons and their wives: Jesse and Joann Dethman, Craig Dethman and Joanna Volger, Matt Byrne and Lauren Kolojejchick-Kotch; and her 2 great-grandchildren: Calvin Dethman and Frances Byrne. She is also survived by many nieces, nephews, other extended family as well as many friends as she treated as her family. A Service will be held at Anderson’s Tribute Center (Hood River, OR), Saturday, December 21, 2:00 with a reception following the ceremony. A private interment will be held at a later date. Memorial donations can be made to FISH (food bank) or The Next Door, Inc. Arrangements are under the direction of Anderson's Tribute Center • 1401 Belmont Avenue, Hood River, Oregon 97031. Visit www.AndersonsTributeCenter.com to leave a note of condolence for the family.
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HOUSTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec 9, 2024-- Solaris Energy Infrastructure, Inc. (“Solaris” or the “Company”) (NYSE: SEI) today announced that it has commenced an underwritten public offering of 6,500,000 shares of its Class A common stock, par value $0.01 per share (“Class A common stock”). In connection with the offering, Yorktown Energy Partners X, L.P. (“Yorktown”), a selling stockholder of the Company, expects to grant the underwriters the option to purchase up to an additional 975,000 shares of Class A common stock (the “Option Shares”) on the same terms and conditions within 30 days. The Company intends to contribute all of the net proceeds it receives from the offering to Solaris Energy Infrastructure, LLC (“Solaris LLC”) in exchange for a number of Solaris LLC membership units equal to the number of shares of Class A common stock issued in the offering. Solaris LLC will use the net proceeds to fund growth capital for additional power generation equipment, including new natural gas turbines and complementary “balance of plant” electrical equipment, to support customer activity. The Company will not receive any proceeds from the sale of the Option Shares offered by Yorktown. Santander US Capital Markets LLC is acting as book-running manager and representative of the underwriters. The offering is being made pursuant to a shelf registration statement on Form S-3, including a base prospectus, which was filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) and became effective on November 25, 2024. The preliminary prospectus supplement, and accompanying base prospectus, relating to the offering, and a final prospectus supplement, when available, will be filed with the SEC and will be available on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov . Copies of the preliminary prospectus supplement, and accompanying base prospectus, relating to the offering, and the final prospectus supplement, when available, may be obtained by sending a request to: Santander US Capital Markets LLC, Attention: ECM Syndicate, 437 Madison Avenue, New York, NY 10022, by email at equity-syndicate@santander.us , or by telephone at 833-818-1602, or by accessing the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov . This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy the shares of Class A common stock or any other securities, nor shall there be any sale of such shares of Class A common stock or any other securities in any state or other jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or other jurisdiction. ABOUT SOLARIS Solaris Energy Infrastructure, Inc. (NYSE:SEI) provides scalable equipment-based solutions for use in distributed power generation as well as the management of raw materials used in the completion of oil and natural gas wells. Headquartered in Houston, Texas, Solaris serves multiple U.S. end markets, including energy, data centers, and other commercial and industrial sectors. FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Examples of forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to economic, market or business conditions, satisfaction of customary closing conditions related to the proposed offering, and the other risks discussed in Part I, Item 1A. “Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023 filed with the SEC on February 27, 2024 and in Part II, Item 1A. “Risk Factors” in our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarters ended June 30, 2024 and September 30, 2024 filed with the SEC on August 9, 2024 and November 7, 2024, respectively. Forward-looking statements are based on our current expectations and assumptions regarding our business, the economy and other future conditions. Because forward-looking statements relate to the future, by their nature, they are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks and changes in circumstances that are difficult to predict. As a result, our actual results may differ materially from those contemplated by the forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause our actual results to differ materially from the results contemplated by such forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to the factors discussed or referenced in our filings made from time to time with the SEC. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date hereof. Factors or events that could cause our actual results to differ may emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for us to predict all of them. We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, except as may be required by law. View source version on businesswire.com : https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20241209273063/en/ CONTACT: INVESTOR RELATIONS CONTACT Yvonne Fletcher Senior Vice President, Finance and Investor Relations (281) 501-3070 IR@solaris-energy.com KEYWORD: TEXAS UNITED STATES NORTH AMERICA INDUSTRY KEYWORD: ENGINEERING UTILITIES OIL/GAS MANUFACTURING ENERGY MACHINERY SOURCE: Solaris Energy Infrastructure, Inc. Copyright Business Wire 2024. PUB: 12/09/2024 04:04 PM/DISC: 12/09/2024 04:03 PM http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20241209273063/enOpenAI ‘s chatbot, ChatGPT , is gaining traction in the online search market, potentially challenging Google ‘s GOOGL long-established supremacy . What Happened : A survey conducted by brokerage firm Evercore ISI disclosed that ChatGPT was the favored search provider for 5% of 1,000 respondents, a significant increase from 1% in June. Millennials were identified as the primary drivers of this uptake. Despite the rise, Google still commands the majority of the search market, with 78% of respondents choosing it as their first preference, a slight decrease from 80% in June. Nonetheless, even a minor shift in market share is noteworthy in the online search industry, which is the foundation of Google’s ad business. According to the survey, ChatGPT’s modest gains suggest a potential shift in Google’s status as the internet’s main gatekeeper. OpenAI’s generative AI technology is revolutionizing how millions access digital information, sparking debates about the sustainability of Google’s search dominance. Also Read: Whistleblowers Accuse OpenAI Of Hindering Staff From Reporting AI Risks In October, OpenAI rolled out a full search feature for ChatGPT and also secured a partnership with Apple Inc. AAPL , placing ChatGPT prominently on numerous iPhones. Both moves are perceived as direct challenges to Google. Despite these advancements, Google remains significantly ahead, as indicated by positive results from Evercore’s survey. Google’s Gemini , a ChatGPT-like assistant, and AI Overviews, a feature that summarizes search results, were deemed more effective by 71% of Google users. Why It Matters : The rise of ChatGPT signifies a potential shift in the online search landscape. Google’s dominance has been unchallenged for years, but OpenAI’s advancements suggest a new competitor is emerging. The partnership with Apple and the introduction of a full search feature for ChatGPT are strategic moves to increase its market share. However, it remains to be seen if ChatGPT can monetize search queries as effectively as Google, a factor critical to its success. Read Next Musk Goes To Court To Block OpenAI’s For-Profit Transition This content was partially produced with the help of Benzinga Neuro and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors. © 2024 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.
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As one of cinema’s most legendary artisans, Francis Ford Coppola has helped shape the world of entertainment for over half a century, even when he wasn’t really trying to. In a recent interview with The Washington Post ahead of him receiving a Kennedy Center Honor this weekend, Coppola reflected on his career, including the surprise success that came from “The Godfather” and how the studios forced him into the position of making a sequel despite not initially having an interest in doing so. As a ploy to cause issues for Paramount, Coppola pitched titling the film “ The Godfather: Part II ” even though most sequels up until that point in Hollywood used unique titles like “The Bride of Frankenstein” or “After the Thin Man.” When “Part II” became another hit in its own right, it spurned a tradition that lasts to this day and one that Coppola himself resents. “So I’m the jerk that started numbers on movies,” he said. “I’m embarrassed, and I apologize to everyone.” Coppola is no stranger to controversy. The production of “Apocalypse Now” was spurned in the press even before the film’s release, and his most recent film “Megalopolis” attracted controversy over accusations against Coppola of unprofessional on-set behavior , as well as his desire to cast problematic talent . “I love my cast,” Coppola added to the Post. “There were people on this side of the present political thing, and that side. People who had been canceled, people who should have been canceled.” Coppola in the interview felt having this wide array of personalities was key to the sense of risk he was trying to bring into production, adding later, “Making movies without risk is like making babies without sex. You can do it. It’s possible, but it’s not very fun.” To Coppola, what’s even riskier is not staying true to your vision, even when that vision changes over time. Known for recutting many of his films, including “Apocalypse Now” and “One from the Heart,” Coppola points to the failure of his 1984 jazz musical “The Cotton Club” and how it was stripped down by the studio as a moment he knew he had to trust his own abilities. His later, personal cut of the film, released in 2017 as “The Cotton Club: Encore,” went on to receive much higher acclaim. “I mean, who would suggest to cut 30 minutes of Black people tap-dancing out of a movie about Black people tap-dancing?” Coppola said of the studio’s decision to tamp down the film. “Now it’s balanced. It’s beautiful.” Throughout his career, Coppola has had to work against these forces trying to impose on his artistry, and every time, he’s found a way to maintain his independence and prove his value. “I was almost fired on all of them,” said Coppola, adding, “The lesson is that the same things that they fire you for are the same things that later they give you lifetime achievement awards for when you’re old.” The Kennedy Center Honors are hosted in Washington D.C. tomorrow, December 8, and will be broadcast on CBS December 22 at 8:30pm ET.
An Asian supermarket in Queens sold a winning Powerball ticket worth a staggering $256 million on Saturday — a revelation that led the store manager who peddled the golden ticket to say, “I have a lucky hand!” The new multimillionaire — who hit the lottery at Hua Lian Supermarket on Parsons Boulevard in Flushing, the New York Lottery said — still hasn’t come forward to claim the big haul. But Jenny Fang, the 40-year-old worker who sold the ticket, was incredulous that she’s the one who handed it over. “I’ve never sold a winning ticket that big,” she told The Post on Monday. “I have a lucky hand! It’s amazing ... it was a total surprise.” The win marks the first in the state since 2020. But even though word spread on WeChat — the messaging and social media app popular in China — the lucky buyer is still unknown. “I don’t know who bought the ticket. They haven’t come in to claim it,” Fang said. “Ninety percent of the people in this neighborhood are Asian, so an Asian person bought it, I think.” Whoever that is, they’re in for a pleasant surprise — they’ll pick between a life-changing $256 million in payments over 30 years or a lump sum of $123.5 million, before taxes. It’s good news for the supermarket, too — other gamblers are already flocking in, hoping for a taste of Hua Lian’s extraordinary luck. “I heard the news that they sold the winning ticket, so I looked up the address and came from the Bronx to buy a Powerball and Mega (Millions) ticket,” Ruben Vasquez, 73, said. Vasquez could use some luck, having purchased losing lotto tickets for years. Still, he grabbed two more Monday — a Powerball and a Mega Millions — but only after he rubbed a hanging, red-and-gold decoration with the Chinese character for “good fortune” printed on it. “You never know where your luck is going to be,” Vasquez said. “You just have to hope you find it one day. I want to find out if my luck is over here too.” “I’m hoping I can be one of the lucky ones. You never know.”Economy tough, Nigerians facing challenges – TinubuWorld leaders gather to celebrate reopening of Notre Dame Cathedral