Why Gap (GAP) Stock Is Trading Up TodayWASHINGTON D.C., DC — For Makenzie Gilkison, spelling is such a struggle that a word like rhinoceros might come out as “rineanswsaurs” or sarcastic as “srkastik.” The 14-year-old from suburban Indianapolis can sound out words, but her dyslexia makes the process so draining that she often struggles with comprehension. “I just assumed I was stupid,” she recalled of her early grade school years. But assistive technology powered by artificial intelligence has helped her keep up with classmates. Last year, Makenzie was named to the National Junior Honor Society. She credits a customized AI-powered chatbot, a word prediction program and other tools that can read for her. “I would have just probably given up if I didn’t have them,” she said. Artificial intelligence holds the promise of helping countless other students with a range of visual, speech, language and hearing impairments to execute tasks that come easily to others. Schools everywhere have been wrestling with how and where to incorporate AI , but many are fast-tracking applications for students with disabilities. Getting the latest technology into the hands of students with disabilities is a priority for the U.S. Education Department, which has told schools they must consider whether students need tools like text-to-speech and alternative communication devices. New rules from the Department of Justice also will require schools and other government entities to make apps and online content accessible to those with disabilities. There is concern about how to ensure students using it — including those with disabilities — are still learning. Students can use artificial intelligence to summarize jumbled thoughts into an outline, summarize complicated passages, or even translate Shakespeare into common English. And computer-generated voices that can read passages for visually impaired and dyslexic students are becoming less robotic and more natural. “I’m seeing that a lot of students are kind of exploring on their own, almost feeling like they’ve found a cheat code in a video game,” said Alexis Reid, an educational therapist in the Boston area who works with students with learning disabilities. But in her view, it is far from cheating : “We’re meeting students where they are.” Ben Snyder, a 14-year-old freshman from Larchmont, New York, who was recently diagnosed with a learning disability, has been increasingly using AI to help with homework. “Sometimes in math, my teachers will explain a problem to me, but it just makes absolutely no sense,” he said. “So if I plug that problem into AI, it’ll give me multiple different ways of explaining how to do that.” He likes a program called Question AI. Earlier in the day, he asked the program to help him write an outline for a book report — a task he completed in 15 minutes that otherwise would have taken him an hour and a half because of his struggles with writing and organization. But he does think using AI to write the whole report crosses a line. “That’s just cheating,” Ben said. Schools have been trying to balance the technology’s benefits against the risk that it will do too much. If a special education plan sets reading growth as a goal, the student needs to improve that skill. AI can’t do it for them, said Mary Lawson, general counsel at the Council of the Great City Schools. But the technology can help level the playing field for students with disabilities, said Paul Sanft, director of a Minnesota-based center where families can try out different assistive technology tools and borrow devices. “There are definitely going to be people who use some of these tools in nefarious ways. That’s always going to happen,” Sanft said. “But I don’t think that’s the biggest concern with people with disabilities, who are just trying to do something that they couldn’t do before.” Another risk is that AI will track students into less rigorous courses of study. And, because it is so good at identifying patterns , AI might be able to figure out a student has a disability. Having that disclosed by AI and not the student or their family could create ethical dilemmas, said Luis Pérez, the disability and digital inclusion lead at CAST, formerly the Center for Applied Specialized Technology. Schools are using the technology to help students who struggle academically, even if they do not qualify for special education services. In Iowa, a new law requires students deemed not proficient — about a quarter of them — to get an individualized reading plan. As part of that effort, the state’s education department spent $3 million on an AI-driven personalized tutoring program. When students struggle, a digital avatar intervenes. More AI tools are coming soon. The U.S. National Science Foundation is funding AI research and development. One firm is developing tools to help children with speech and language difficulties. Called the National AI Institute for Exceptional Education, it is headquartered at the University of Buffalo, which did pioneering work on handwriting recognition that helped the U.S. Postal Service save hundreds of millions of dollars by automating processing. “We are able to solve the postal application with very high accuracy. When it comes to children’s handwriting, we fail very badly,” said Venu Govindaraju, the director of the institute. He sees it as an area that needs more work, along with speech-to-text technology, which isn’t as good at understanding children’s voices, particularly if there is a speech impediment. Sorting through the sheer number of programs developed by education technology companies can be a time-consuming challenge for schools. Richard Culatta, CEO of the International Society for Technology in Education, said the nonprofit launched an effort this fall to make it easier for districts to vet what they are buying and ensure it is accessible. Makenzie wishes some of the tools were easier to use. Sometimes a feature will inexplicably be turned off, and she will be without it for a week while the tech team investigates. The challenges can be so cumbersome that some students resist the technology entirely. But Makenzie’s mother, Nadine Gilkison, who works as a technology integration supervisor at Franklin Township Community School Corporation in Indiana, said she sees more promise than downside. In September, her district rolled out chatbots to help special education students in high school. She said teachers, who sometimes struggled to provide students the help they needed, became emotional when they heard about the program. Until now, students were reliant on someone to help them, unable to move ahead on their own. “Now we don’t need to wait anymore,” she said. ___ This story corrects that Pérez works for CAST, formerly the Center for Applied Specialized Technology, not the Center for Accessible Technology. The Associated Press’ education coverage receives financial support from multiple private foundations. AP is solely responsible for all content. Find AP’s standards for working with philanthropies, a list of supporters and funded coverage areas at AP.org.

Stock indexes drifted to a mixed finish on Wall Street as some heavyweight technology and communications sector stocks offset gains elsewhere in the market. The S&P 500 slipped less than 0.1% Thursday, its first loss after three straight gains. The Dow Jones Industrial Average added 0.1%, and the Nasdaq composite fell 0.1%. Gains by retailers and health care stocks helped temper the losses. Trading volume was lighter than usual as U.S. markets reopened following the Christmas holiday. The Labor Department reported that U.S. applications for unemployment benefits held steady last week, though continuing claims rose to the highest level in three years. Treasury yields fell in the bond market. THIS IS A BREAKING NEWS UPDATE. AP’s earlier story follows below. Stocks wavered on Wall Street in afternoon trading Thursday, as gains in tech companies and retailers helped temper losses elsewhere in the market. The S&P 500 was up less than 0.1% after drifting between small gains and losses. The benchmark index is coming off a three-day winning streak. The Dow Jones Industrial Average was up 10 points, or less than 0.1%, as of 3:20 p.m. Eastern time. The Nasdaq composite was up 0.1%. Trading volume was lighter than usual as U.S. markets reopened after the Christmas holiday. Chip company Broadcom rose 2.5%, Micron Technology was up 1.3% and Adobe gained 0.8%. While tech stocks overall were in the green, some heavyweights were a drag on the market. Semiconductor giant Nvidia, whose enormous valuation gives it an outsize influence on indexes, slipped 0.1%. Meta Platforms fell 0.5%, Amazon was down 0.4%, and Netflix gave up 0.7%. Tesla was among the biggest decliners in the S&P 500, down 1.4%. Health care stocks helped lift the market. CVS Health rose 1.4% and Walgreens Boots Alliance rose 3.9% for the biggest gain among S&P 500 stocks. Several retailers also gained ground. Target rose 3.1%, Ross Stores added 1.8%, Best Buy was up 2.5% and Dollar Tree gained 3.6%. Traders are watching to see whether retailers have a strong holiday season. The day after Christmas traditionally ranks among the top 10 biggest shopping days of the year, as consumers go online or rush to stores to cash in gift cards and raid bargain bins. U.S.-listed shares in Honda and Nissan rose 4.2% and 15.9%, respectively. The Japanese automakers announced earlier this week that the two companies are in talks to combine. Traders got a labor market update. U.S. applications for unemployment benefits held steady last week , though continuing claims rose to the highest level in three years, the Labor Department reported. Treasury yields turned mostly lower in the bond market. The yield on the 10-year Treasury fell to 4.58% from 4.59% late Tuesday. Major European markets were closed, as well as Hong Kong, Australia, New Zealand and Indonesia. Trading was expected to be subdued this week with a thin slate of economic data on the calendar. Still, U.S. markets have historically gotten a boost at year’s end despite lower trading volumes. The last five trading days of each year, plus the first two in the new year, have brought an average gain of 1.3% since 1950. So far this month, the U.S. stock market has lost some of its gains since President-elect Donald Trump’s win on Election Day, which raised hopes for faster economic growth and more lax regulations that would boost corporate profits. Worries have risen that Trump’s preference for tariffs and other policies could lead to higher inflation , a bigger U.S. government debt and difficulties for global trade. Even so, the U.S. market remains on pace to deliver strong returns for 2024. The benchmark S&P 500 is up roughly 26% so far this year and remains near its most recent all-time high it set earlier this month — its latest of 57 record highs this year. Wall Street has several economic reports to look forward to next week, including updates on pending home sales and home prices, a report on U.S. construction spending and snapshots of manufacturing activity. ___ AP Business Writers Elaine Kurtenbach and Matt Ott contributed. Alex Veiga, The Associated PressKansai International Airport, situated near Osaka, Japan , is an engineering wonder and one of the globe's most remarkable air hubs, constructed at a staggering cost of $20.9 billion. The airport, entirely built on a man-made island in Osaka Bay , serves as a significant international gateway to the Kansai region, encompassing cities such as Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe. Constructed on an artificial island approximately 4 kilometres (2.5 miles) long and 2.5 kilometres (1.6 miles) wide, the airport stands as a testament to human ingenuity, reports Daily Express UK. After six years of construction, which included creating the island and constructing the terminal and runways, it opened its doors in 1994. In September 1998, the airport weathered a typhoon with wind speeds exceeding 60m per second. However, in September 2018, the airport was struck by Typhoon Jebi. Operations had to be halted after seawater surges flooded the island. Runways were affected, and the water rose to the engines of some aircraft. Despite the devastation caused by the natural disaster, the airport managed to resume partial operations within days. Designed to withstand earthquakes and typhoons, common occurrences in the region, the airport incorporates advanced seismic and wave-resistance technologies. However, the airport faces another challenge: the island it was built on is sinking due to the soft clay seabed. This issue, foreseen during planning, is being addressed through ongoing adjustments and reinforcements. DON'T MISS: Top 10 best airlines to get an upgrade but only one's in America Airline pilot reveals best time and day to fly to avoid flight delays American Airlines launches new boarding system to prevent airport ‘gate lice’ The airport's runways and taxiways undergo regular elevation and reinforcement. Enhanced protective measures, like seawalls, have been implemented to shield against flooding worsened by subsidence. The sinking rate has considerably decelerated since the airport was built, due to engineering efforts and natural stabilisation. Nonetheless, it continues to be a persistent issue in the long run.

How Cadillac Got Their Spot On The 2026 F1 GridNorth Korean general reportedly wounded in Ukrainian strike By JAMES REYNOLDS Published: 17:22, 22 November 2024 | Updated: 17:28, 22 November 2024 e-mail Advertisement A high-ranking North Korean military officer was reportedly wounded during a Ukrainian strike in Russia's Kursk region. Western officials confirmed the casualty, marking the first time a North Korean general was directly impacted by the ongoing war. The strike occurred shortly after reports surfaced of British Storm Shadow missiles being deployed in the area. The casualty stems from North Korea’s controversial decision to send 10,000 soldiers to support Russia's war efforts. Analysts suggest this move aligns with Kim Jong Un’s strategy to gain advanced military technology and battle experience. "North Korea is positioning itself within the Russian war economy," one expert noted. Ukrainian defense officials believe British Storm Shadow missiles were used in the Kursk attack, citing debris and the strike’s precision. This marks a significant moment as Ukraine leverages Western long-range weaponry to target deep within Russian territory. "Storm Shadows are capable of dodging air defenses, making them a nightmare for enemies," experts emphasized. Ukraine claims the strike targeted an underground control room housing Russian and North Korean military officials. While the exact details remain speculative, Western officials corroborated reports of a senior North Korean general being injured in the attack. The deployment of North Korean troops underscores the deepening partnership between Pyongyang and Moscow. Signed in June, a strategic treaty between Kim Jong Un and Vladimir Putin mandates military assistance during attacks, further aligning the two nations against Western sanctions. British Storm Shadow missiles are celebrated for their cutting-edge design, combining GPS technology and infrared seekers to penetrate defenses. “On impact, the missile penetrates the target before a delayed fuse detonates the main warhead,” military experts detailed. The strike and North Korea's involvement have heightened fears of broader conflict. European nations are preparing for potential escalation, with Germany and Finland launching measures to bolster defense capabilities. “We will not be intimidated,” Germany’s foreign minister declared. Images from Kursk show fragments allegedly from Storm Shadow missiles, including one bearing the weapon’s name. The UK had earlier confirmed supplying these missiles to Ukraine, emphasizing their importance in countering Russian advances. The use of Storm Shadows and US-supplied ATACMS signals a tactical shift in Ukraine’s strategy. Experts argue that these weapons allow Ukraine to target previously unreachable military sites, altering the battlefield dynamics. Amid escalating tensions, NATO held its largest-ever artillery exercises near the conflict zone. The drills, involving 28 nations, underscore Western preparedness in the face of potential escalation. Finland’s participation reflects the alliance's expanding commitment to collective defense. Want more stories like this from the Daily Mail? Visit our profile page and hit the follow button above for more of the news you need. North Korea Kim Jong-un Ukraine Moscow Russia Share or comment on this article: North Korean general reportedly wounded in Ukrainian strike e-mailThe chief technology officer at Foot Locker, Butler brings more than 25 years of leadership experience across all areas of technology to the Board NORFOLK, Va. , Dec. 17, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- PRA Group, Inc. (Nasdaq: PRAA), a global leader in acquiring and collecting nonperforming loans, announced today that Adrian Butler has been elected as an independent director of the company, effective January 1, 2025 . Butler is the chief technology officer (CTO) of Foot Locker, Inc., a leading global footwear and apparel retailer with approximately 2,450 retail stores in 26 countries across North America , Europe , Asia , Australia and New Zealand , and a licensed store presence in the Middle East and Asia . As Foot Locker's CTO, Butler is responsible for driving technology strategy, innovation and delivery across their digital, data and analytics, supply chain/merchandising and omni-channel experiences. Prior to this role, he was chief information officer at Casey's General Stores, Inc., and senior vice president of information technology and chief information officer at Dine Brands Global, Inc., the parent company of Applebee's and IHOP restaurants. He also served as vice president in the technology services division at Target Corporation. In addition to serving on boards such as Potbelly Corporation and Grambling University Foundation, his alma mater, Butler is the recipient of numerous awards and recognitions, including Los Angeles Business Journal's CIO of the Year, CIO Magazine's CIO 100, Computerworld's Premier 100 IT Leaders, Board Prospects' 50 Military Veteran Board Members Making a Difference and the 500 Most Powerful Business Leaders in Dallas-Fort Worth . "We are thrilled to welcome Adrian to the Board," said Steve Fredrickson, PRA Group Board chairman. "Adrian is an experienced public company board member and business leader with demonstrated success driving technology innovations to transform large global organizations across multiple industries after serving as captain in the United States Air Force. His business and technology insights and expertise will be invaluable to the Board and management as we continue to advance our IT strategy and preparedness in support of initiatives that drive profitable growth." "I am honored to join the talented Board at PRA Group as a strategic business partner and contribute my experience to support its continued growth and success around the globe," said Butler. About PRA Group As a global leader in acquiring and collecting nonperforming loans, PRA Group, Inc. returns capital to banks and other creditors to help expand financial services for consumers in the Americas, Europe and Australia . With thousands of employees worldwide, PRA Group companies collaborate with customers to help them resolve their debt. For more information, please visit www.pragroup.com . News Media Contact: Elizabeth Kersey Senior Vice President, Communications and Public Policy (757) 641-0558 Elizabeth.Kersey@PRAGroup.com Investor Contact: Najim Mostamand , CFA Vice President, Investor Relations (757) 431-7913 IR@PRAGroup.com View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/adrian-butler-elected-to-pra-group-board-of-directors-302334284.html SOURCE PRA Group, Inc.

Family violence 'under-reported, under-prosecuted and under-identified'

( MENAFN - PR Newswire) Exclusive Christmas Package Offer Starting from $499 For Two to $699 For Three HONG KONG, Dec. 17, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- MONOPOLY DREAMSTM Hong Kong offers to magnify your festive excitement with its exclusive Christmas Package starting from 21st Dec, 2024 till 1st Jan, 2025. Bundled perfectly for families, friends and MONOPOLY fans of all ages, you don't need to wait till Boxing Day to unwrap your dream fun. Irresistible offers with more than 30% discounts, ranging from $499 Package-for-2 to $699 Package-for-3, coming with "Walk into MONOPOLY", "Häagen-Dazs Festive Ice Cream", "Cotton Candy", Gashapon treats, together with a Christmas gift for every person. MONOPOLY DREAMS leverages the classic elements of Monopoly, with emphasis on interactive experience to highlight tourist spots suiting all ages, has soon flourished as a "must visit" destination for local and foreign visitors soon since its inauguration. Keeping abreast of the times, MONOPOLY DREAMS is now equipped with AR and 4Dx interactive game technology, bringing the famous board game to life to explore Mr Monopoly's Vault and hoover up properties like a billionaire by devoting in the "Walk into MONOPOLY" game, and win prizes. There are also a wide range of boardgames in the MONOPOLY retail shop perfect for festive gifting to beloved family members, friends and fans. For details of Christmas Exclusive Packages and ticketing channels, please visit MONOPOLY DREAMSTM Hong Kong's official website: Address: Level 3, Peak Galleria, 119 Peak Road, Hong Kong Opening Hours: 10:00 to 20:00 【 ABOUT MONOPOLY DREAMS HONG KONGTM 】 MONOPOLY DREAMS HONG KONGTM is the first MONOPOLY (aka TYCOON)-themed attraction in the world, as well as a brand-new tourist attraction in Hong Kong. It is located at the most popular tourist spot – the Peak, which is the most expensive title deed and the supreme "king of property" in the MONOPOLY Hong Kong Edition. MONOPOLY classical elements like Train Station, Water Works, Ultimate Banking will be ready to give you the best MONOPOLY experience! Everyone can try their luck and pursue their dreams in MONOPOLY DREAMS TM! Let's Own It All together! For more details, please visit MONOPOLY DREAMSTM Hong Kong official website: SOURCE Monopoly Dreams MENAFN17122024003732001241ID1109004995 Legal Disclaimer: MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.